Car Buyer's Notebook.com

« January 2007 | Main | March 2007 »

February 28, 2007

American Suzuki adds industry veteran to enhance record growth

BREA, Calif. – American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) today announced that Gary N. Akin has joined its executive management team as vice president, sales. Akin brings more than 20 years of industry knowledge and experience to Suzuki, and joins the automaker at a time of record growth.

ASMC’s sales in 2006 were up 23 percent over 2005, as American Suzuki sold an all-time high of 100,990 automobiles, the best sales year in the company’s history. This year, ASMC continues its impressive sales growth, selling a January monthly record of 8,179 vehicles.

“American Suzuki welcomes this seasoned industry executive to our senior management team,” said Koichi Suzuki, president of ASMC’s Automotive Operations. “Gary will energize our dealers, and we look forward to his leadership building upon our sales momentum and continuing Suzuki’s success.”

As vice president, sales, Akin will oversee ASMC’s growing network of more than 530 dealers in 49 states, of which 200 have either completed the Suzuki Square retail brand image program or have a facility under construction.

Akin brings a proven track record of progressive automotive experience to ASMC. He entered the industry as a customer relations analyst and then moved quickly through the parts and service, network development and marketing and sales ranks of major domestic and foreign auto manufacturers, including Ford, Nissan and most recently Volkswagen where he oversaw western region operations.

“I look forward to applying my experience in sales and network development at Suzuki, where I believe there is an unprecedented opportunity for sales and brand growth in the coming years,” Akin said. “With exciting products like the all-new XL7 and SX4, as well as Suzuki’s future products, last year’s achievement of being the fastest-growing manufacturer in the country is just the beginning of even greater things to come.”

Posted by Frank at 04:05 PM

National Safety Commission Supports Florida Ban on Radar Detectors

Proposed legislation would protect the public by reducing the dangers of speeding on Florida's highways

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- The National Safety Commission praised a proposal in the Legislature Wednesday to protect the public from drivers who think they can speed with impunity by using radar detection devices.

The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Steve Oelrich of Gainesville, would make using a radar detector a secondary traffic infraction, which means a motorist could be ticketed if he or she were pulled over for another offense and found to be using a radar detector.

"This bill is a positive step to protect Florida families on roads and highways from speeding drivers," said Ken Underwood, president of the National Safety Commission, which provides auto safety courses to consumers and businesses in every state and more than 15 countries.

"Radar detectors give drivers a false sense of security that they can speed as much as they want without facing the consequences of breaking the law," Underwood said. "Speed limits are important because they are proven to help prevent accidents and save lives, and using a radar detector encourages people to drive at unsafe speeds."

In 2005, more than 380 Florida drivers were killed in accidents where excessive speed was the major contributing factor in the crash, according to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. To reduce the danger caused by speeding, nine other states have prohibited the use of radar detectors, including Illinois and Virginia.

"I applaud Sen. Oelrich for this common-sense legislation that will prevent crashes and save lives," Underwood said. "After more than a decade of experience as Sheriff of Alachua County, he continues to show that public highway safety is a priority with this legislation."

Source: National Safety Commission

Posted by Frank at 04:00 PM

Audi achieving record production, sales and profit numbers

INGOLSTADT, Germany - Audi achieved new record figures for production, vehicle sales, revenue and profit before tax in the 2006 financial year. “Our excellent accounts for 2006 once again demonstrate how to achieve profitable growth. We are the fastest-growing premium brand in the world. This puts us well on our way to becoming the most successful premium car manufacturer in the world by 2015,” remarked Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, at today's Annual Press Conference in Ingolstadt.

The revenue of the Audi Group rose by 17.1 percent in the 2006 financial year to the all-time record level of EUR 31.1 billion. This rate of increase is significantly higher than the growth rate for vehicle sales (up 9.2 percent). The brand with the four rings enjoyed an even steeper rise of 43.2 percent in the operating result, to EUR 2,015 million.

This huge success is attributable in particular to the steady improvement in the model mix that has been brought about by selling higher-value vehicles. Meanwhile the measures to cut costs, boost productivity and optimize processes exercised a positive impact on earnings.

Profit before tax reached EUR 1,946 million and therefore showed a rise of 48.5 percent. This is its highest ever level in the history of the company. “The disproportionately high increase in revenue and earnings when compared with vehicle sales provides us with an excellent basis, and is the best possible evidence of our long-term drive for qualitative growth,” emphasized Stadler. Profit after tax was EUR 1,343 million, representing a rise of 63 percent.

The Audi Group achieved significant growth of 4.5 percentage points in the return on investment, to 14.2 (9.7) percent. This places Audi among the leaders in the car industry. The disproportionately sharp rise in earnings compared with revenue is also reflected by the increase in the rate of return from 4.9 to 6.2 percent.

Record vehicle sales for eleventh year in succession

The Audi brand established a new record for vehicle sales for the eleventh year in succession in 2006: it delivered 905,188 vehicles to customers worldwide, representing a rise of 9.2 percent or 76,079 vehicles (2005: 829,109*). Record numbers of vehicles were sold in 41 markets.

The company achieved its best sales figure ever in Germany: 257,792 (247,125) vehicles were handed over to their new owners in 2006, equivalent to a rise of 4.3 percent. Audi has consequently achieved a market share of 7.6 percent in its home market of Germany, its highest in 26 years.

“Audi is a successful company that operates increasingly on a global scale. The ten biggest markets account for around 80 percent of our unit sales,” explained Ralph Weyler, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Marketing and Sales, today in Ingolstadt. The biggest export market remains the USA with a record total of 90,116 units (83,066, up 8.5 percent), followed by UK on 86,003 (81,374, up 5.7 percent) and China (excluding Hong Kong) on 80,808 (58,128, up 39.0 percent). In China including Hong Kong, Audi increased its sales by 38.8 percent to 81,708 vehicles. “China is well on the way to becoming a second home market for Audi. That is where we believe our biggest potential for growth lies, so we are striving to build on our long-standing market lead for premium vehicles.”

In Europe excluding Germany, the company enjoyed growth of 7.7 percent to 400,671 (371,995) units. The biggest rises in unit sales in absolute terms were achieved in Spain, France, Belgium, Italy and the UK.

The positive trend in Eastern Europe is continuing: the number of vehicles sold there rose by 31.7 percent to 27,083 (20,559) units. The most notable of these is Russia, where Audi is market leader in the premium segment with growth of 64.3 percent.

The subsidiary Lamborghini improved on the previous sales record from 2005 (1,600 units), selling 2,087 vehicles (up 30.4 percent).

Vehicle and engine production reaches record level

Car production (including Lamborghini) climbed by 14.1 percent in 2006 to the record level of 926,180 vehicles. With quattro versions accounting for 33.1 percent of this total, the Ingolstadt-based car manufacturer is now the market leader for four-wheel-drive vehicles in the premium segment. Engine production by the Audi Group climbed 11.8 percent to 1,895,695 units.

Quantitative and qualitative growth safeguarding jobs

Audi's recent choices of production locations have reaffirmed its faith in Germany as an industrial base. “Whenever we need to identify a production location for a new model, all the venues being considered naturally have to prove that they can build it on internationally competitive terms,” explained Stadler.

The number of employees at December 31, 2006 was 52,463, and thus remained at the previous year's high level (52,430). 44,719 (44,970) people were employed at AUDI AG, including 31,304 (31,337) in Ingolstadt and 13,415 (13,633) in Neckarsulm. AUDI HUNGARIA MOTOR Kft. employed a workforce of 5,373 (5,022) employees, the Lamborghini Group had 672 (681) and Volkswagen Group Italia S.p.A. (formerly AUTOGERMA S.p.A.) 875 (845) employees. With 2,231 (2,236) apprentices in 20 different trades, Audi has maintained the number of those in training at the Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm plants at the previous year's high level.

The additional share of profits that the company paid out to employees for the first time last year will be even higher this time round, thanks to the record earnings: a total amount of EUR 81.5 million will be paid out to the workforce. On average this means EUR 1,959 per employee, virtually four times the payment of the previous year. It will be paid on top of the existing profit-sharing arrangements for employees.

Outlook for 2007: safeguarding sustainability

“Our strategy focuses on growth – in unit sales, revenue and earnings. You can see from our record figures that our corporate strategy is working. However, we will not be resting on our laurels. Our task for this and subsequent years is now to safeguard the sustainability of the sales, revenue and earnings figures that we have achieved, and to secure their steady growth,” added Stadler. “Audi has got off to an excellent start to 2007. With unit sales of around 75,150, we can already look back on the best January in the company's history.” This figure meant that Audi's vehicle sales worldwide were 8.0 percent up on the same month of the previous year.

In view of the above-average qualitative and quantitative growth it has enjoyed in recent years, the company expects the key figures for 2007 to be on a par with the previous year. “According to the principle of “Progressive Performance”, which we also took as the title for this year's Annual Report, we will be adopting a variety of measures to secure further significant cuts in fuel consumption, and push ahead with the development of alternative fuels and drive principles,” declared Stadler. The group will exploit growth potential in existing and new markets, further optimize corporate processes and systematically push forward with its product initiative: the new Audi A5 car line will be launched in the first half of the year with the appearance of the Audi A5 Coupé. Audi has furthermore just decided to build a compact, sporty small car. “Because we have ambitious objectives even if we will be taking the opportunity to catch our breath this year. We aim to push our unit sales beyond the one million barrier by the end of 2008. And we have set ourselves the sales target of 1.5 million vehicles by 2015,” concluded Stadler at this year's Annual Press Conference.

* ) Prior-year figures and rates of increase in each case in brackets

Posted by Frank at 03:59 PM

Hyundai's inventory increasing in U.S.

SEOUL: Hyundai Motor said Monday that the number of its unsold vehicles in the United States had increased after it cut sales to fleet operators.

The company has reduced sales to rental fleets since September, Jang said, to protect prices on new cars from downward pressure when fleet vehicles are sold as used cars.

"We expect inventory of 98,000 units as of the end of February, or about one month's extra," the company said in an e-mail, following a newspaper report that inventory of just Sonata sedans would rise to 120,000 cars.

The company's inventory is also rising due to competition from Japanese automakers including Toyota Motor. Last month, Hyundai Motor reported fourth-quarter profit fell 22 percent.

Posted by Frank at 11:30 AM

New Report Details Diesel Danger for Commuters

WASHINGTON -- Diesel fumes pose a major health risk to commuters, according to a new report by the non-profit Clean Air Task Force.

The Boston-based environmental research group reported today that even though we spend only a tiny portion of our day commuting, it's during the commute that we receive more than half our overall exposure to deadly fine particle pollution.

"Exposure to diesel exhaust during commutes poses a serious public health risk that needs to be addressed," said George Thurston, Professor of Environmental Medicine at New York University's School of Medicine, who wrote the foreword to the report.

Fine particle pollution, including diesel exhaust, can cause lung cancer, stroke, heart attack and infant death. It also triggers asthma attacks and makes people more likely to become allergic.

Some health researchers have estimated that such fine particles are responsible for shortening the lives of at least 70,000 Americans each year.

The Task Force specifically investigated diesel exhaust levels during commutes in New York, NY; Boston, MA; Austin, TX and Columbus, OH. The Task Force documented diesel particle levels four to eight times higher inside commuter cars, buses, and trains than in the ambient outdoor air in those cities. These are examples of likely results during a commute anywhere in the country where there is significant diesel traffic.

"Our investigation demonstrated that you may be exposed to high levels of diesel particles -- four to eight times the levels in the outdoor air -- whether you commute by car, bus, ferry, train, or on foot," said Bruce Hill, Senior Scientist with CATF.

By contrast, Hill noted, pollution levels were negligible for commuters in and near vehicles equipped with modern pollution controls or those that run on lower polluting fuels such as natural gas.

"The problem is that there are 13 million diesel engines in service today, and virtually all are exempt from modern pollution controls," said Conrad Schneider, Advocacy Director for the Task Force. "However, our study showed that simply replacing the muffler of trucks or buses with a diesel particle filter can reduce commuter exposure substantially," he said. By EPA regulation, the Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel that is necessary to keep these diesel particle filters operating optimally became available nationwide late last year.

The Task Force called on federal and state agencies to increase funding to clean up highly polluting buses and other existing diesel engines. It urged the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to require that long-haul trucks clean up when their engines are rebuilt. It also urged the EPA to move ahead with plans to set new pollution standards for diesel trains and diesel-powered boats, including commuter ferries.

The new report can be found online at http://www.catf.us/goto/noescape

For information about diesel risk in specific communities, go to: http://www.catf.us/projects/diesel/dieselhealth/

Founded in 1996, the Clean Air Task Force (CATF) (http://www.catf.us/) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring clean air and healthy environments through scientific research, public education, and legal advocacy. CATF's staff includes scientists, engineers, economists, MBAs and lawyers. The organization works closely with more than 40 state, local, regional and national groups to educate the public, media, industry and public decision makers on the science and economics of clean air policies through fact-based and locally appropriate advocacy.

Source: Clean Air Task Force

Posted by Frank at 11:06 AM

The Safe Way Home, from Volvo Cars of North America

Future of Road and Vehicle Safety

WASHINGTON -- On March 6th, the Embassy of Sweden, together with the Swedish Trade Council, will host a conference, "The Safe Way Home," at the House of Sweden in Washington, D.C. Policymakers, researchers and industry experts will share their experiences in improving safety on our roads.

Approximately 43,000 people lose their lives on U.S. roadways every year, resulting in endless family tragedies and social costs. How is this possible and what can be done to change it?

Sweden ranks near the top among countries with the lowest number of traffic fatalities in relation to the population. A Swedish initiative called "Vision Zero" is in place with the goal of reducing traffic deaths to zero. In collaboration with Swedish road authorities and car makers, this project has already resulted in improved road systems and safer vehicles. Since Vision Zero was established, there have also been fewer people killed on Sweden's roads.

The implementation of Sweden's efforts will be highlighted, along with insights from Volvo Trucks, Volvo Cars and Saab -- some of the world's leading manufacturers of safe vehicles.

Representatives from U.S. industry, research and transportation authorities will address the main challenges facing the U.S. road network and strategies for meeting these challenges. Speakers include:

Claes Tingvall, Director of Traffic Safety, Swedish Road Administration;
Chairman Euro NCAP

Jeffrey Lindley, Associate Administrator for Safety, Federal Highway
Administration, U.S. Dept. of Transportation

Ronald Medford, Senior Associate Administrator, National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration, U.S. Dept. of Transportation

Larry W. Minor, Director, Office of Bus and Truck Standards and
Operations, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, U.S. Dept. of
Transportation

Rolf Rising, Director Business Analysis & Development, Invest in Sweden
Agency; Swedish Intelligent Vehicle Safety Systems Program (IVSS)

Peter Kissinger, President & CEO, AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

Richard Pain, Transportation Safety Coordinator, Transportation Research
Board

Robert Clark, President, Truck Manufacturers Association

Scott Kress, Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing, Volvo Trucks North
America

Lennart Pilskog, Director of Public Affairs, Volvo Truck Corporation

Robert C Lange, Executive Director Structure & Safety Integration,
Saab/General Motors

Tomas Broberg, Senior Technical Adviser Safety, Volvo Car Corporation

Source: Volvo Cars of North America

Posted by Frank at 09:35 AM

Sports package for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Stuttgart -- The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is now available to order with a sports package comprising exclusive details that inject a new and thrilling sense of flair. Inside, it is primarily the silver-coloured contrast stitching, perforated leather and aluminium trim in a fresh new look that set the tone for the sporty and luxurious ambience.

Outside, large wheels in a thrilling five-spoke design dominate the picture, while setting off the silver-painted front brake callipers to particularly stunning effect. Perforated brake discs at the rear wheels help endow the Roadster with excellent stopping power. Finally, the 7G-TRONIC Sport transmission with steering-wheel shift paddles further intensifies the sports car sensation felt when sitting inside the Roadster bearing the mystical letters "SL".

Ever since the world-famous 300 SL Gullwing Coupé was premiered over 50 years ago, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has ranked as one of the most fascinating and coveted cars in the world. Now in its fifth generation, the current SL-Class has lost none of this mystique and excels in all the same ways as its predecessors, by offering sophisticated design, groundbreaking technology, exceptional comfort and immense driving pleasure. A new equipment package from Mercedes-Benz, which is available to order now, gives the two-seater an even sportier, individualised look thanks to a host of refined details both inside and out.

The new large 19-inch wheels (8.5 inches at the front with 255/35 ZR19 Y tyres, 9.5 inches at the rear with 285/30 ZR19 Y tyres) are the most striking visual feature and deftly underscore the extra-special status of the SL-Class with sports package. Their sensational, newly devised design comprising five twin spokes with very straight lines and a hubcap cover featuring the Mercedes star and laurel wreath instantly attracts the gaze of any onlookers. The wheels' visual impact is reinforced by the fact that they afford an unimpeded view of the attractively styled front brake callipers, which have been specially painted in silver for the sports package and marked with the Mercedes-Benz lettering. The high-performance brake system lives up to these sensational looks, assisted by perforated brake discs at the rear wheels too. Dark-tinted tail light units form a further distinguishing feature.

Innovations on the technical side include a sports air cleaner that produces a richer sporty sound in the SL 350. The chief technical highlight of the new sports package is, however, the 7G-TRONIC Sport seven-speed automatic transmission, the only passenger car transmission of its type in the world. Apart from a manual shift program, the new transmission also comes with steering-wheel shift paddles in both the SL 350 and the SL 500. The paddles allow drivers to shift through the seven gears without having to take their hands off the multifunction steering wheel, just like in a racing car. What's more, 7G-TRONIC Sport is capable of shortening gearshift times by as much as 30 per cent.

In the interior, silver-coloured contrast stitching on the seats, steering wheel, dashboard, centre console, selector lever gaiter, armrest as well as the door linings (and in the rear of models with Exclusive nappa leather appointments) creates an unmistakable emphasis. The same applies to the borders of the high-grade velour floor mats. A roof liner trimmed in black fabric, new-look aluminium trim as well as the perforated leather adorning the steering wheel and selector lever further underline the car's sporty aspirations.

When the model received its most recent facelift one year ago, the engine line-up, driveline and suspension were all tuned for even sportier performance. Ever since, a new V6 and V8 power unit together with even more powerful V8 AMG and V12 engines have been delivering yet more dynamic motoring pleasure in the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, allied to an even greater sense of effortlessly superior fun at the wheel. The second-generation "Active Body Control" suspension in the SL and its more direct steering for that extra touch of sportiness are equally as impressive.

The new sports package offers customers an enticing way of further enhancing and personalising this legendary dream car. It is only available for the SL 350 and the SL 500 in conjunction with black leather appointments (standard in the SL 500). It is priced at € 2975 (incl. VAT).

Posted by Frank at 09:08 AM

smart fortwo cdi boasts lower standard fuel consumption and CO2 emissions

The new smart fortwo cdi is even more environmentally friendly than expected: Instead of the previously communicated 90 grams, the CO2 emissions stand at just 88 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre.

The vehicle certification process that has now been completed also established fuel consumption under standard conditions of just 3.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The provisional figure previously given was 3.4 l/100 km.

At present there is no more economical way of running a car

Even more so than before the new smart fortwo cdi has the lowest CO2 emissions of any car on the market today. At present there is no more economical and climate-friendly car than the smart fortwo cdi.

The petrol engine versions of the new smart fortwo also boast impressively low fuel consumption of just 4.7 and 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres respectively. Correspondingly, the CO2 emissions stand at just 112 and 116 grams per kilometre.

Posted by Frank at 08:59 AM

Chevy Getting a Jolt From Volt

By Bob Lutz
GM Vice Chairman

The introduction of our Chevrolet Volt concept car and E-Flex electric propulsion system at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit last month created quite a stir, garnering twice the media coverage as the runner up for us, our Chevrolet Camaro convertible.

The Volt came on the heels of our announcement at the Los Angeles show that we’ve begun work on a Saturn Vue plug-in hybrid, and puts a face on our efforts to diversify the energy sources we use to power automobiles.

However, some cynics accused us of pulling a PR stunt, saying the Volt is simply an attempt by GM to “greenwash” the public and would never be a real vehicle. The truth is just the opposite — we are treating Volt just like any other vehicle we do, giving it a dedicated development team and designating resources for it. With that in mind, I thought I’d take a moment to update you on the program so far.

As you probably know, the development of advanced, lithium-ion battery technology is the key to getting vehicles like the Volt on the road. For the last few months, we’ve been mobilizing GM’s global resources to address the challenges posed by this issue. We’ve invested in an upgrade to our battery testing and development facilities and we’ve formed a dedicated battery team whose staff levels will increase by 30 percent over the next two years.

We have also named GM veteran Denise Gray to the newly created position of director of energy storage systems — some of us like to call her “GM’s battery czar.” Denise has more than 20 years of experience in such areas as powertrain, vehicle integration, electronics and software controls.

We signed two development contracts in January for lithium-ion batteries with two groups of suppliers – Cobasys/A123Systems and Johnson Controls-Saft. We also plan to talk to additional battery suppliers as well.

By the end of this year, we will begin testing the lithium-ion batteries developed in prototypes of the Vue Green Line plug-in hybrid. In the same timeframe, we also expect to have our first demonstration vehicles that use E-Flex. Our previously announced test fleet of Chevrolet Equinox fuel cell vehicles also use the E-Flex system, with a fuel cell stack instead of batteries as a prime supplier of electricity, a further demonstration of our commitment to electric drive and energy diversity.

Make no mistake: These programs are a top priority for GM. We have established aggressive product development timelines – even forming a special executive leadership council for the E-Flex program to expedite product decisions and regularly update those of us in senior management.

We’re making progress, and you should expect to hear more in the near future. At the Detroit show we emphasized E-Flex’s adaptability, from accommodating different vehicle designs to using various fuels and types of engines. We will prove that capability this year. Stay tuned, we’ll update the program periodically here on FastLane.

Posted by Frank at 08:55 AM

Ford CEO Visits Mazda

Mazda Motor Corporation welcomed Alan Mulally president and CEO of the Ford Motor Company, to Mazda headquarters in western Japan’s Hiroshima Prefecture today. Ford is Mazda’s largest shareholder and strategic business partner, and this was Mulally’s first visit to Mazda in Hiroshima. Mazda’s President and CEO, Hizakazu Imaki, and several Mazda senior executive officers greeted Mulally at Mazda’s head office.

Said Mulally, “Ford and Mazda have one of the most successful partnerships in automotive history. I firmly believe that Mazda’s employees are committed to achieving sustained and continued growth going forward. Mazda is, and will continue to be, a key partner in Ford Motor Company’s business plans—particularly in the areas of R&D, product development and manufacturing. The relationship between the two companies’ top management has never been better, and I fully expect the deep ties between Ford and Mazda to extend into the future and become even stronger.”

Mazda’s President Imaki welcomed Mulally, adding, “Everyone at Mazda recognizes that product-led growth is one of the best contributions we can make to our partnership with Ford as we continue our efforts to strengthen the Mazda brand. In the future, I would like to further develop our global cooperation with Ford.”

During his visit, Mulally toured Mazda’s production facilities near its headquarters and delivered a motivational address to approximately 200 senior Mazda employees in the company’s auditorium.

In 1979, Ford and Mazda entered into a capital tie-up when Ford acquired 25 percent of Mazda shares. Ford raised its stake in Mazda to 33.4 percent in 1996, strengthening the strategic relationship. Former Ford Chairman and CEO, Bill Ford, visited Mazda in June 2004 as Mazda and Ford celebrated the 25th anniversary of their historic capital tie-up. Today’s visit by Mulally comes two years and eight months after the last visit to Mazda by Ford’s top-ranking executive.

Posted by Frank at 08:50 AM

Winning Puzzle Pros Ride "Chrysler Aspen Snowdoku Challenge" Victory to Aspen, Colo.

* Puzzle-proficient teams prove their sudoku skills in larger-than-life “Snowdoku” contest in New York City

* Members of the University of Pennsylvania swim team set record time and win trip to Aspen, Colo., complete with the use of an all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen, after solving the “Snowdoku” puzzle in 4 minutes and 26 seconds

New York -- Sudoku enthusiasts rolled into the Big Apple to compete in a frozen feat and demonstrate their puzzle prowess in the “Chrysler Aspen Snowdoku™ Challenge” on Tuesday, Feb. 27. The super-size sudoku puzzle, which was made out of 36,000 pounds of snow and ice, was solved in 4 minutes and 26 seconds by a team of puzzle pros from the University of Pennsylvania swim team. For their efforts, the members of team Penn Swimming were awarded a grand prize trip to Aspen, Colo., where they will ride in style during their stay in an all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen, the brand’s first sport-utility vehicle.

“I have always loved the challenge of solving puzzles, but I never knew that sudoku could be such an intense, team sport,” said Tara Gillies, 18, a member of the winning “Snowdoku™” team. “When we were sitting inside the Chrysler Aspen, we had a feeling we were going to win and now I can’t believe that we’re all going to Aspen together!”

Team Penn Swimming was one of six teams that were selected to compete in the “Chrysler Aspen Snowdoku™ Challenge” after registering online for a chance to participate. Teams were allowed to have anywhere from two to eight players and were challenged to work together using a six-foot long pencil to solve the giant “Snowdoku™” puzzle in the shortest amount of time.

The game board, which was approximately 30 feet by 30 feet, transformed the traditionally solitary game of sudoku into an enormous, high-energy outdoor team sporting event in New York City’s Bryant Park. To help prepare for the snowy challenge, each team was given time to “warm-up” inside the eight-passenger Chrysler Aspen before having up to 20 minutes to solve the puzzle.

During the “warm-up” teams worked together to discuss strategy before racing to pick up the oversized writing tool and complete the giant “Snowdoku™” puzzle. The collegiate members of Team Penn Swimming included Tara Gillies, 18, originally of Bay Head, N.J., Laura D’Erasmo, 19, originally of Greenwich, Conn. Cammie Villarreal, 22, originally of New Canaan, Conn. Nicole Malgeri, 20, originally of Jasper, Ga., and Amy Reams, 18, originally of Evanston, Ill.

“With so many consumers driving the sudoku trend, we thought it would be fun to refine the traditional game – just as we have refined the traditional SUV with the 2007 Chrysler Aspen – and challenge consumers to experience a new way to play their favorite number game,” said David Rooney, Director – Chrysler Marketing & Global Communications.

The sudoku puzzles used during the “Chrysler Aspen Snowdoku™ Challenge” were provided by Will Shortz and St. Martin’s Press.

Posted by Frank at 08:49 AM

Ford Edge Flying Off Dealer Lots

It seems customers like the Ford Edge so much, they'll even drive through a blizzard to buy one.

That story, and several others, underlines the sales success of Ford's new crossover. In its first full month of sales in January, the Edge had sales of 5,586, easily eclipsing the first month sales of the popular Ford Fusion sedan (4,078 in October 2005).

Sales consultant Susan Blue says she's still amazed by the customer that braved 18 inches of snow and blocked roads to pick up his new Edge a few weeks ago.

On that whiteout Saturday afternoon, a prospect Blue had talked with earlier in the week said he would come by -- to buy.

"It was bad out," said Blue, who works at Don Seelye Ford in Kalamazoo, Mich. "There was a snow advisory and a snow alert, and I couldn't even see the used car lot from the office window."

Nonetheless, after 45 minutes on the road in what should have been a 15-minute trip, Blue's customer pulled up in his trade-in -- a 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT coupe with only 11,000 miles on the odometer.

"He saw the Edge ad on TV, but he seemed nonchalant when I talked to him earlier, so I was surprised when he called that day," said Blue. "He was bound and determined to get an Edge."

The deal was quickly done, and the customer was instantly rewarded. Driving his new all-wheel-drive Edge, he shaved 15 minutes off his ride back home on snow-clogged streets.

Since then, he's called Blue twice and written a letter to say how pleased he is with his new purchase. And she's sold two more since then.

"It's a hot, hot product," she said.

Sheehy Ford in Gaithersburg, Md., also reports an Edge conquest sale involving the trade-in of an upscale foreign model, in this case BMW's luxury crossover, the X5.

Sheehy's customer liked their BMW but decided to test drive an Edge after the TV ads caught their attention. After the test drive, they chose not to buy another BMW and got the Edge. They also said they're considering buying a second Edge when their lease on a BMW 7 series luxury sedan expires later this year.

At the Grand Ford dealership in East Liverpool, Ohio, near the Pennsylvania and West Virginia border, sales manager Rob Migliore thanks the Internet for their first Edge sale.

The dealership received its first Edge on a Monday morning and sold it that afternoon to a customer who drove an hour and a half from Uniontown, Ohio, to buy it.

That customer had been online at the interactive Edge site and "built" the car they wanted. With a few clicks, they learned that Grand Ford was the closest store with "their" Edge -- a pewter SEL with the Vista Roof.

"We were the ones with the car they wanted so they drove here right away to get it before someone else did," said Migliore.

Sales rep Bob Montgomery reports a similar story from Jerry Taylor Ford in Grove City, Pa. The dealership got its first Edge (with a Vista Roof) on a Friday.

By Monday morning, Montgomery had sold it to a customer who had driven by the dealership that weekend and spotted the vehicle.

"He said it was beautiful, and I went for a test drive, and he said he'd be back in a few minutes. Well, I've heard that one before," says Montgomery who has been selling cars since 1984.

The customer told Montgomery he'd be back at 11 a.m. and showed up at 10:55. He went for a second test drive and bought the Edge, trading in a loaded Chevy HHR he'd had for just four months that he said he didn't like.

"All he says now is how great that Edge rides, even better than the (Toyota) Camry he has at his Florida home," says Montgomery.

There was a bonus in that sale, too.

"Every week, he stops by with tomatoes and produce from his greenhouse. I think I've made as much on produce as I did on the commission," laughs Montgomery.

"(The Edge) is a great vehicle to sell. I just need to sell some more of them."

Posted by Frank at 08:39 AM

GM Recognizes Karl Chevrolet as Certified Used Sales Leader

ANKENY, Iowa - General Motors announced today that Karl Chevrolet of Ankeny, Iowa, is the 2006 GM Certified Used Vehicles National Sales Leader award winner. The award recognizes the nation's top-selling dealership in 2006 sales of GM Certified Used Vehicles.

Karl Chevrolet, which sold 1,911 GM Certified Used Vehicles in 2006, has been a top-selling GM Certified dealership since joining the program in 2004. GM Certified Used Vehicles sold an industry-leading 449,461 units in 2006*, finishing as the nation's top-selling manufacturer-certified brand for the fifth consecutive year.

GM also announced the following 2006 GM Certified Used Vehicles Regional Sales Leader Award winners: Northeast region, Fox Chevrolet of Laurel, Laurel, Md.; Southeast region, Maroone Chevrolet of Pembroke Pines, Pembroke Pines, Fla.; South Central region, Reliable Chevrolet, Springfield, Mo.; and Western region, John L. Sullivan Chevrolet, Roseville, Calif.

"The credibility and peace of mind that the GM Certified program provides for us and our customers is outstanding," said Bret Moyer, general sales manager, Karl Chevrolet. "We've always had a strong used-car program, but since joining the GM Certified Used Vehicles program it has become even stronger. Knowing that their vehicle is fully inspected, reconditioned and backed with a manufacturer warranty provides customers with a level of confidence that is invaluable."

Karl Chevrolet opened operations in 1978 in Ankeny, Iowa. In 1983, the dealership moved to its current location on Interstate 35 and has continued to grow larger throughout the years. Karl Chevrolet is very proud of its accomplishments, including being named the Chevrolet Dealer of the Year Award recipient for the North Central region each of the past seven years.

"Karl Chevrolet's position as the national sales leader is a strong testament to the peace of mind and value GM Certified brings to their customers," said Paul Pejza, manager, GM Certified Used Vehicles. "The program's success is the direct result of the commitment of dealers like Karl Chevrolet who provide customers with great value and a high-quality used-vehicle purchase and ownership experience that only a GM Certified dealer can provide. That commitment is reflected in their outstanding sales results."

Posted by Frank at 08:37 AM

Kevin Harvick Wasn't the Only Winner at Daytona

Precision Tune Auto Care Customer Gets VIP Treatment As Racing Event of The Year Sweepstakes Winner

LEESBURG, Va. -- Winner of the Precision Tune Auto Care (PTAC) Racing Event of The Year Sweepstakes, San Diego resident and PTAC customer Barry Webb thoroughly enjoyed the experience of a lifetime as a VIP in Daytona Beach last Sunday, where he met and toured the garage with NASCAR star Bill Lester. PTAC is a sponsor of NASCAR driver Bill Lester and was part of his historic move to the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series in 2006.

"Attending the superbowl event of racing was a fantastic experience and apparently I just witnessed the most incredible race finish in history," said Barry, who has never been able to afford to attend a big race and enjoyed talking to an actual stockcar driver. "Bill Lester is down to earth, a real neat guy. That was a special treat, and I'm kinda worried about his safety now that I met him and know about his wife and children, with Bill racing trucks this weekend here in California," he explained.

An e-oil change customer of the San Diego Precision Tune Auto Care located at 3425 Midway Drive, Suite B, owned and operated by Clarence and Shylynn Goodman, Barry entered the sweepstakes in-store and was selected out of more than 10,000 entries. Participants entered the sweepstakes from November through December online at precisiontune.com, by mail or at participating PTAC centers nationwide, where interestingly the use of the bright yellow PTAC signs, just like Harvick's bright yellow stockcar, certainly draws attention.

Source: Precision Tune Auto Care

Posted by Frank at 08:33 AM

Most Crash Victims Not Receiving Life-Saving Resources

BOSTON -- After a serious car crash when your survival depends on urgent helicopter transport to a specialized trauma center -- will you receive it? Most likely not, according to the findings of a first-in-the-nation study by Health and Safety Research, Inc., a Massachusetts non-profit. As a result, your chance of survival can be reduced by 2-to-10 times.

The findings are striking because for the study year, Massachusetts had the lowest crash death rate in the U.S., and one of the 10 lowest in the world. The states and countries with higher crash death rates may under- utilize life-saving resources to a greater extent.

The HSRI comprehensive one-year statewide study of the response of Massachusetts' EMS and hospital system to people involved in fatal level car crashes, appears in this month's Journal of Trauma, a leading peer-reviewed medical journal. The study was conducted under the auspices of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Massachusetts Governor's Highway Safety Bureau.

A sophisticated methodology tracked the path and outcome of every involved person starting at the crash scene -- whether transported or not -- including helicopter and ground ambulance use, community or specialized trauma center hospital treatment, and inter-hospital transfers. Qualification for helicopter transport and/or trauma center care was calculated using state/national guidelines.

Among other major findings, the HSRI study shows that 83% of people who qualified for direct helicopter transport to a trauma center and 62% of people who qualified for direct transport (via ground or air ambulance) to a trauma center did not receive those resources. Helicopters did not arrive at 88% of the crashes, primarily because they were not requested. Survival varied by a factor of 3 between the state's five EMS regions, and up to a factor of 10 times, depending where and how people were taken for treatment. Overall, people who qualified and received transport directly to a trauma center had about twice the survival of those who qualified but did not receive those resources.

"Advanced transport and hospital resources can't be effective when victims are not directed to them," says lead author Nicholas Mango. "The majority of severely injured persons qualified for advanced medical resources they did not receive. Had they received those services, we believe crash fatalities could be substantially reduced."

http://www.healthandsafetyresearch.org/

Source: Health and Safety Research, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 08:28 AM

Free Sundays Never So Sweet at Budget

PARSIPPANY -- Budget Rent A Car System, Inc. today announced that now through May 6, 2007, customers who rent four or more consecutive days that include a Sunday can receive the Sunday rental day free. The free Sunday will be applied to the rental at the time of pickup.

Budget has sweetened the free Sunday offer by providing customers with a Baskin-Robbins(R) coupon book with sweet offers on the company's signature ice cream treats. The booklet includes buy-one, get-one-free sundae and cone offers, and dollars off ice cream cakes. In addition the customer will receive offers for future Budget car rental offers.

"Budget customers appreciate great value," said Becky Alseth, senior vice president of marketing for Avis Budget Group, Inc., parent of Budget. "So, they're sure to enjoy an offer that not only gives them a free car rental day but also helps them save on their favorite ice cream and frozen treats."

The free Sunday offer is valid at participating Budget locations in the United States and an advance reservation is required. Customers must mention coupon # TUNZ001 at the time of reservation. Offer is subject to vehicle availability and coupon books are available while supplies last. For full terms and conditions, visit www.budget.com/freesunday.

Source: Budget Rent A Car System, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 08:27 AM

Ganging up for new kid-car safety laws

Child Safety Advocates and Victims Join Senators Clinton and Sununu and Representatives Schakowsky and King to Demand Passage of Tougher Laws to Stop Deaths and Injuries of Children Due to Motor Vehicle Design Flaws

Victims to Lobby on Eve of Senate Hearing on Child Safety Issues

WASHINGTON -- KIDS AND CARS, Consumers Union, and Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety join victims from across America to demand federal safety standards to prevent children from dying in non-traffic automobile incidents such as being backed-over or strangled by power windows.

"Every week at least four children needlessly die in and around cars," said Janette Fennell, president of KIDS AND CARS. "This important child safety legislation will stem the tide of future tragedies. Our children simply cannot wait. We know this is a growing problem, we have the technology to solve it, and now we need legislation to get federal action," she added.

Since 2000, at least 1,000 children have died in non-traffic incidents, with 219 in 2006 alone. Back-over incidents have increased dramatically claiming the lives of 474 children from 2002-2006 compared to 128 from 1997- 2001 and now account for half of all non-traffic fatalities involving children. The federal government does not collect data about non-traffic incidents, so the actual fatality numbers are likely much higher.

A 2002 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over 9,100 children are treated in hospital emergency rooms due to non- traffic incidents in a one-year time period.

"By taking simple, common sense steps using technology that already exists at low cost, we can make our cars safer for our children and protect them from these deadly, avoidable accidents. We owe it to families to do everything we can to give drivers a warning and give kids a chance," said Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY).

"Cars don't need to be moving to be dangerous. Already this year at least 12 children have died as a result of non-traffic automobile accidents," said Senator John Sununu (R-NH). "Senator Clinton and I have reintroduced our child safety legislation because this issue remains an urgent public safety matter. By taking responsible, affordable precautions -- such as installing backover warning systems, power window strangulation prevention mechanisms and brakeshift interlocks -- we can save lives."

The Cameron Gulbransen KIDS AND CARS Safety Act of 2007, sponsored by Senators Clinton and Sununu and Representatives Schakowsky and King, addresses non-traffic safety problems. The bill directs the U.S. Secretary of Transportation to issue regulations to decrease the incidence of child injury and death:

-- Ensure power windows automatically reverse direction when they detect
an obstruction to prevent children from being trapped, injured or
killed;
-- Provide drivers with a means of detecting the presence of a person or
object behind their vehicle;
-- Provide for the vehicle service brake to be engaged to prevent vehicles
from unintentionally rolling away; and
-- Establish a child safety information program to disseminate information
to parents about these hazards and ways to mitigate them; as well begin
collecting data about non-traffic incidents.

Seven families of children who were killed in recent non-traffic incidents came to share their stories in the hope that other parents be spared future losses. The victims who traveled to Washington in support of the legislation are: Sue Auriemma, Manhasset, NY; Packy Campbell, Farmington, NH; Britt Gates, Anthony, KS; Angela and Tim Gridley, Cedartown, GA; Christine Isakson, Waterford, VA; Julie and Smith Peck, Marietta, GA; and Arden Rosenfeld, Boca Raton, FL.

"Year after year, hundreds of young lives are needlessly lost because Congress has failed to pass legislation that would make cars safer for children," said Congresswoman Janice Schakowsky (D-IL), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee that has jurisdiction over the legislation. "As the grandmother of four, it breaks my heart that so many families have been destroyed by accidents that are entirely preventable. We cannot afford to wait any longer to pass this crucial piece of legislation because thousands of children's lives are at stake."

"I can't imagine a more horrible way for a parent to lose a child," said Representative Peter King (R-NY). "The loss of one child is a terrible tragedy, but the loss of hundreds of children year after year is inexcusable. We have the technology to prevent these unfortunate accidents. At this point, there is no reason that it shouldn't be a standard feature in all new vehicles."

A broad coalition of consumer, health, medical and safety groups support passage of the House and Senate legislation including the American Academy of Pediatrics, Public Citizen, Kids in Danger, Trauma Foundation, The Zoie Foundation, Adrianna's Rule Foundation, Veronica's Eyes Foundation, Craig's Crusade and more.

Source: Consumers Union

Web site: http://www.kidsandcars.org/

Posted by Frank at 08:25 AM

New Jersey Senate Introduces 'Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act,'

Bill Shows Legislators' Desire to Help Motorists & Small Business, States CARE

ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- "Thanks to the bipartisan leadership of Senate Majority Leader Bernard Kenny (D-Hoboken) and Senator Joseph Kyrillos (R-Middletown), New Jersey's motoring consumers have an even greater chance of having The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act passed. The senators have jointly co-sponsored The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, S-2553, the companion bill to the New Jersey Assembly's A-931," stated David Parde, president, The Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE).

"New Jersey's motoring consumers and over 7,000 small aftermarket locations are fortunate to have a state legislature that is moving forward to seek relief from the growing monopoly that will prohibit consumers from the right to have their vehicles repaired at their shop of choice," continued Parde. "The question is, WHO OWNS YOUR VEHICLE -- THE VEHICLE OWNER OR THE CAR COMPANIES? We say consumers own their vehicles."

Vehicles that are 1994 and newer (and some earlier models) are equipped with computers that control the vital systems, among them: air bags, brakes, batteries, tire pressure, oil, radio and sound systems, climate control, pollution controls, transmission, fuel injection, ignition system and ignition keys, steering mechanisms and more. The only sure way for motorists to have these systems and their "entire" vehicle repaired and parts replaced is to return to the car dealerships.

"This has created a potential for safety hazards for those who need immediate repairs but may not live near the appropriate car dealership, may be traveling without any car dealerships nearby, hurts low and fixed income motorists, has the potential to hurt the environment (the more vehicles that can be repaired at the maximum number of locations the cleaner the cars thus the cleaner the air), and strangles America's competitive free markets," continued Parde.

Fighting the pro-consumer Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act are the New Jersey car dealerships and car companies who would benefit from a monopoly, and the Automotive Service Association (ASA) who has relatively few members in New Jersey and who has sided with the car companies against their fellow aftermarket repair shops and motoring consumers on The Right to Repair Act.

The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act does NOT restrict motorists from choosing where to have their vehicles repaired. The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act will allow motorists to completely own their vehicle by having the ability to choose where, how and by whom to have their vehicles repaired, whose parts they wish to purchase, even work on their vehicles themselves.

Senate Cosponsors Kenny and Kyrillos join Assemblypersons Reed Gusciora (D-Trenton) and Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D-Camden) in their pro-consumer legislation to help all of New Jersey's motoring consumers.

Numerous groups support passage of The Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act, among them: American Automobile Association (AAA); National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB); Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP-NJ); RetireSafe (which represents nearly 10,000 New Jersey seniors); National Grange and 60s Plus Seniors.

The national Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act is expected to be reintroduced into the 110th U.S. Congress. The Coalition for Auto Repair Equality (CARE) represents companies in the automotive aftermarket, among them: NAPA, Midas, CARQUEST, AutoZone, Advance Auto, Jiffy Lube and O'Reilly's Auto Parts.

Source: Coalition for Auto Repair Equality

Posted by Frank at 08:23 AM

Chrysler Group Statement in Regards to Early Retirement Programs for Bargaining Unit Employees

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Chrysler Group and the UAW today agreed to two special programs that will provide retirement and separation incentives for the Company's bargaining-unit employees in the United States as part of the Chrysler Group's Recovery and Transformation Plan.

The negotiated programs include an Incentive Program for Retirement (IPR) with $70,000 cash lump-sum amount for employees with 30 or more years of credited service, or who meet a combination of age and years-of-service eligibility, and an Enhanced Voluntary Termination of Employment Program (VTEP), which provides a lump sum payment of $100,000 for employees with at least one year of credited service.

A letter outlining the plans was sent to affected employees Feb. 27.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 08:22 AM

Ford Gives Edge To Mobile For Creating Engagement

IN A MOBILE CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED last November for the Ford Edge crossover, a higher proportion of visitors to the mobile site viewed a promotional video clip than on the vehicle's traditional Web page.

The ongoing campaign created by mobile marketing company Enpocket for Ford has also generated hundreds of thousands of content downloads a week, including the video and Ford Edge screensavers.

"We're seeing higher engagement on the mobile device than through the brand experience online," said Enpocket CEO Mike Baker.

While he wouldn't disclose any detailed results of the Edge campaign, Baker said the higher level of engagement reflected in the video downloads appears to be a growing trend.

"What we're seeing in the last year is that the mobile device is becoming its own channel," he said. "People are using mobile phones to access the Internet, so that gives birth to a second entry point for marketers."

A study released this week by the Pew Internet Project found that a quarter of U.S. Internet users now access the Web via a mobile device.

Posted by Frank at 08:20 AM

February 27, 2007

Toyota To Build Highlanders in Mississippi

New Plant to Start Production by 2010; To Employ 2,000 Team Members

February 27, 2007 - TUPELO, Mississippi - Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour joined Toyota officials today to announce that the company has chosen a 1,700-acre site in Blue Springs, Mississippi to build its eighth North American vehicle assembly plant.

The new plant, to be located just outside of Tupelo, will have the capacity to build 150,000 vehicles annually of Toyota's popular Highlander sport utility vehicle. Production is scheduled to begin by 2010.

The new plant represents a $1.3 billion investment by Toyota and is expected to create approximately 2,000 new jobs for the region and indirectly create work for many more. Operations at the plant will include stamping, body weld, plastics, paint, and assembly.

Governor Barbour, speaking at a news conference held in Tupelo, welcomed Toyota's decision to set up operations in Mississippi.

"We in Mississippi and especially North Mississippi are excited to have been chosen by Toyota as its partner," said Governor Barbour. "Toyota is the world's premiere auto manufacturer and our state will be the best partner the company has."

Toyota manufacturing Executive Vice Presidents, Gary Convis and Ray Tanguay, joined Governor Barbour at the announcement to help deliver the good news to local citizens.

Convis addressed Toyota's challenge in balancing rapid growth while maintaining the company's superior quality standards, noting the recent start up of Tundra production in San Antonio and upcoming launch of Camry production at the Subaru plant in Lafayette, Indiana.

"We are excited for the opportunity to do business in Mississippi and are confident the team members here will have a commitment to perform at the highest possible level," he said. "Governor Barbour and the regional economic development team were very convincing and unrelenting in their efforts to showcase the area's advantages," Convis said, while acknowledging that competition among several states for the new plant was tough.

Tanguay also pointed out several factors that led to Toyota's site selection decision.

"On my visits to Northern Mississippi, I have talked with area companies and observed their workforce," said Tanguay. "What I observed were people who are educated, ethical and friendly with a strong work ethic – a perfect match for the Toyota Way." He added that the area's existing companies had high praise for the workforce. "They were definitely the best sales people."

Convis and Tanguay both recognized the contributions of the team who worked on bringing Toyota's fifth vehicle assembly plant to the U.S., citing the team effort put forth by state and local officials and the private sector.

"The partnership of all of these groups was instrumental to our decision, including the creation of a new rail district to provide competitive rail access for the plant," said Tanguay.

"We're honored that Toyota has chosen to invest in our state and grow with Mississippians," said Trent Lott, Senator of Mississippi. "This is a partnership between one of the world's best companies, and a state which has already proven itself capable of attracting the world's top defense, automotive and aerospace jobs."

Mississippi Senator Thad Cochran and Congressman Roger Wicker also participated in the announcement.

Site preparation and construction for the plant is scheduled to begin later this spring. A majority of the hiring will take place closer to the start of vehicle production.

Outline of Toyota Mississippi

Location Blue Springs, Mississippi (outside of Tupelo)
Plant overview Vehicle production (stamping, body weld, plastics, paint and assembly)
Product Toyota Highlander
Production capacity 150,000 units/year
Site area 1,700 acres
Investment $1.3 billion
Start of production By 2010
Employment 2,000

Toyota currently operates six vehicle assembly plants with one under construction in North America. These include:

• Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK), in Georgetown produces the Avalon, Camry, Camry Hybrid, and Camry Solara.

• Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, Inc. (TMMC), in Cambridge, Ontario produces the Corolla, Matrix and Lexus RX 350.

• Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc. (TMMI), in Princeton produces the Tundra, Sequoia, and Sienna.

• New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. (NUMMI), a joint venture with General Motors in Fremont, California, produces the Corolla and Tacoma and Pontiac Vibe.

• Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California (TMMBC), in Tijuana, Mexico, produces the Tacoma and Tacoma truck beds.

• Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc. (TMMTX), in San Antonio produces the Tundra.

• And beginning in 2008, a new plant in Woodstock, Ontario will produce the RAV4.

Also, Toyota this spring will start producing Camrys at Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) in Lafayette, Indiana.

Additionally, Toyota has four engine plants in North America including:

• Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia, Inc. (TMMWV), in Buffalo produces four-cylinder and V6 engines and automatic transmissions.

• TMMK produces four-cylinder and V6 engines.

• TMMC assembles four-cylinder engines.

• Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama, Inc. (TMMAL), produces V6 and V8 engines.

To view the announcement on a live web cast, log on and register at:

http://www.iian.ibeam.com/events/mdlk001/21770

The announcement will also be available via satellite at the following coordinates:

Galaxy 11; Transponder 13K.

Toyota (NYSE:TM) established operations in North America in 1957. In 2009, Toyota will have the annual capacity to build approximately 2.16 million cars and trucks, 1.45 million engines and 600,000 automatic transmissions in 15 plants across North America. There are more than 1,700 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealerships in North America, which sell more than 2.8 million vehicles a year. Toyota directly employs more than 41,000 people in North America. With today's announcement, Toyota's investment in North America is valued at nearly $19 billion.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This e-mail is a service of the Toyota/Lexus Pressroom.

To change your preferences, including e-mail notifications, please visit My Account (valid name and password will be required to edit the information).

Posted by Frank at 11:30 AM

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz Bike Collection

Fascinating design and sophisticated technology

Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH heralds the 2007 season with three new bicycle models. Both the technical and the functional features of the brand-new ‘Fitness’ and ‘Trekking’ bikes have been designed to optimally meet the demands of ambitious hobby and leisure cyclists alike.

Bold curves set special accents that underline the unique character of the Mercedes-Benz brand, and an ultra lightweight high-end racing bicycle with a carbon frame rounds off the new range of bicycles.

The unmistakable and striking styling of the new 2007 bicycles is the result of close co-operation with the Mercedes-Benz Design Center in Sindelfingen. For the first time, the interplay of bold curves and straight lines grafts the current design language of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars on muscle-powered single-track vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH designed the new bicycles jointly with the German premium bicycle manufacturer ADP Engineering GmbH that produces the renowned ‘Rotwild’ brand bicycles in as-hand-made quality and guarantees the highest degree of craftsmanship combined with high-level finishing. The engineers aimed to integrate the core values of the Mercedes-Benz brand, i.e. safety and innovation, with the help of equipment features.

Elegant and comfortable: the 2007 ‘Fitness’ bikes

The ‘Fitness’ bicycles come in two versions, i.e. ‘Sport’ (for gents) and ‘Comfort’ (for ladies), and are captivating even at first glance thanks to their original, high-quality aluminium frame and the lightweight magnesium fork with its comfortable 80-millimetre stroke. The fork can be fixed in position in order to minimise tiring strokes whenever necessary as, for instance, during lengthy uphill climbs. The front end, which can be tilted by up to 60 degrees, and the Vario handlebar allow the ‘Fitness’ bicycles to be adjusted so as to be in complete harmony with body measurements – just like the seat of a Mercedes-Benz passenger car. The result: perfect ergonomics and a seating position that is equally comfortable for small and tall cyclists alike.

The reliable and exact Shimano Alivio shifting unit and the hand lever make the bicycles the ideal choice for both lengthy trips and the daily ride to the office. The 24 gears of the new dérailleur ensure the correct pedalling frequency on any terrain.

Disk brakes for maximum safety

The disk brakes with their diameters of 170 millimetres and 160 millimetres in the front and rear, respectively, guarantee optimal deceleration and emphasise the safety focus of the brand with the three-pointed star. Round anti-siphon passages dissipate heat more quickly and, on top of that, present an opportunity to integrate an immobiliser: A special bolt connected to the bicycle is pushed through the passages and locked in place afterwards, thus protecting the bike against its being pushed away and, consequently, against theft. Even though the expressly puristic ‘Fitness’ bicycle is primarily meant for use in a leisure and sports context, it does come with some extra equipment features that make it fit for every-day use, such as a side stand and LED safety lights, a high-tech light source that despite its low weight and small size ensures that cyclists are well visible even at night.

Mercedes-Benz ‘Fitness’ bicycles are available in three frame sizes of 45, 48 and 51 centimetres. The ‘Sport’ and ‘Comfort’ model versions have identical equipment features, their frame geometries being the only difference between them. They come with a price tag of 990 Euro.

Exclusively equipped: the 2007 ‘Trekking’ bikes

Their exclusive equipment features and additional add-ons make the new ‘Sport’ and ‘Comfort’ trekking bicycles perfectly suited for cycling on regular roads and for trekking tours alike. Take the lights, for instance, with their highly sophisticated technology: a sensor automatically activates the halogen lamp system, while a parking-light function once again enhances safety when stopping at traffic lights at night. A smooth, quiet dynamo at the hub supplies the necessary electrical power.

The extremely robust aluminium carrier offers ample space for trip luggage or a sports bag. With its load-bearing capacity of up to 25 kilograms, this high-strength carrier system beats any conventional system. The range of accessories includes a made-to-fit carrier bag that can be attached by way of a precisely fitting quick snap-on system which prevents it from sliding or falling off. The trekking bikes are also available in three different frame sizes of 45, 48 and 51 centimetres and two versions, i.e. ‘Sport’ (for gents) and ‘Comfort’ (for ladies). They cost 1,290 Euro each.

2007 racing machine: the high-end carbon bicycle

The new carbon racing bike rounds off the 2007 Bike Collection at the high end. Its uncompromising lightweight construction and the exclusive high-end components supplied by the Italian premium manufacturer Campangolo ensure that the attractiveness of the Mercedes-Benz racing bike captivates both aficionados and seasoned cycling professionals alike. The innovative carbon-fibre frame, which forms the very core of this impressive racing machine, is made according to the tube-to-tube production method. This ultimate state-of the-art production method for carbon frames involves the joining of frame parts in a section-by-section process. The lightweight bicycle weighs no more than seven kilograms in total; the price tag on this thorough-bred sports machine displays 3,990 Euro.

Convenient and with a personal note: the comprehensive range of bicycle accessories

The exclusive range of accessories available from Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH offers many ways to adapt the bicycles to customers’ individual demands and special requirements, down to the minutest detail. For instance, the modern bicycle computer with its twelve functions fits all Mercedes-Benz bicycles and provides the cyclist with all the important data, be it current or average speeds, trip mileage or time spent travelling. The handy carrier bag is made from robust nylon and has a total storage capacity of seven litres divided over one master compartment and two smaller sections. A Teflon coating protects the contents against moisture and dirt. The intelligent transport system with its patented ‘QuickTrack’® snap-on lock ensures that the made-to-fit piece of luggage is safely kept in place and easy to mount to and remove from the carrier: all it takes is to have it lock into the holding plate. It is released by pushing the release button, just like on a seat belt.

If the worst comes to the worst, the ultra lightweight mini toolkit comes in handy. It allows cyclists to execute the most important repairs themselves while on tour. Whether one needs a spoke wrench or a chain riveter – the 182-gram kit in its neoprene bag holds a total of 18 tools. The easy-to-handle mini pump ensures that pressure remains optimal even during longer trips. The 26-centimetre power pack can yield up to 12 bar and fits into almost any type of luggage, or it can be mounted to the wheel with the help of handy holders. A knapsack for drinks and a FirstAid kit complete the range of bicycle-trip accessories.

Unprecedented: brand-typical bike wear

For the very first time, the Mercedes-Benz Bike Collection features a range of clothes that includes jerseys and pants for ladies and gents as well as bicycle glasses and helmets. With its high degree of functionality and the brand-typical elegance, the modern outfit invariably makes for a grand presence. What is more, the ergonomic design also meets the demands of cyclists with a focus on comfort and safety.

The helmets offer maximum protection and combine good looks with the highest wear comfort. 19 vents ensure that cyclists keep cool in any situation. Two LEDs and additional reflectors enhance safety at night: thanks to a convenient plug-in system, the light-emitting diodes easily slide onto the helmet; a white or red light, respectively, indicates whether a cyclist is approaching or departing.

Last but not least, the particularly compact folding lock is a great anti-theft device. Thanks to an intelligent system of joints, the 75-centimetre anti-theft protection feature folds down to the size of a mobile phone.

All prices quoted apply in Germany and include 19 percent VAT. The 2007 Bike Collection will be available from Mercedes-Benz sales partners as of May.

Posted by Frank at 09:10 AM

Toyota to build next Highlander in Elvis country

Toyota Motor Corp. is expected to announce today that it will build a new $1 billion SUV plant near Tupelo, Miss., about 100 miles southeast of Memphis. Toyota and state officials were gathering on Monday night in Tupelo and are expected to hold a press conference there this morning. The site is in a small community named Blue Springs, Miss. The plant's first phase will require some 2,100 workers to produce the next generation Highlander SUV, a model that is currently imported from Japan.

Posted by Frank at 09:08 AM

New Volvo C30 Offers Gentex Mirror

ZEELAND, MI -- Feb 27, 2007 -- Gentex Corporation, the leading supplier of automatic-dimming rearview mirrors to the worldwide automotive industry, has announced that it is shipping interior auto-dimming mirrors for the 2007 Volvo C30.

Gentex auto-dimming mirrors automatically darken to reduce glare from the headlamps of vehicles approaching from the rear. The brighter the glare, the darker the mirrors become, making nighttime driving safer.

The 2007 C30 offers an auto-dimming mirror with a compass display as part of a convenience package available on specific trim levels. The C30's primary markets are in Europe, including Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany and Spain.

"Volvo's target market for the C30 is the younger buyer which will introduce Gentex products to a new generation of Volvo customers," said Gentex Senior Vice President Enoch Jen.

Source: Gentex

Posted by Frank at 09:02 AM

Health tab to soar at GM

UAW deal cuts Ford's cost, but not for long

Health care costs at General Motors Corp. and Ford Motor Co. will continue to rise at an alarming rate and are likely to spark a showdown with the United Auto Workers during upcoming contract talks, according to a new report released Monday by the respected credit-rating firm Fitch Inc.

Fitch looked at cash costs for health care at both GM and Ford and concluded that concessions made by the UAW in 2005 have not been enough to offset inflation-driven increases in health care spending, production cuts and the flow-back of workers from both automakers' former parts subsidiaries. Ford will see some modest gains as a result of its blue-collar buyout program, but both companies will continue to trend upward.

"The recent health care agreements with the UAW, changes to salaried health care programs and employee buyouts have pushed out the slope of the health care curve, but have done little to erase, or even narrow, the significant competitive disadvantage that these costs represent versus the transplant competition," Fitch stated in its report. "Health care will be the No. 1 issue in the upcoming labor talks, which are likely to be contentious."

Posted by Frank at 08:59 AM

Chrylser to build small cars with Chinese Chery

DaimlerChrysler AG’s Supervisory Board approved today a deal to form a partnership in which the Chrysler Group will jointly develop small cars with Chinese automaker Chery Motor Co.

Pending approval by the Chinese government, the final agreement is expected to be signed by the end of March. Under the deal, Chery will build small vehicles for the Chrysler brands primarily for North America and western Europe.

Chrysler Group executives have said they could not profitably build small vehicles in the United States. The deal will allow the company to quickly expand into new segments without having to spend as much money, the company said.

No time-frame was given in the initial press release Tuesday about when these vehicles are expected to come to market.

Posted by Frank at 08:58 AM

Bill would make cars kid-safe

Legislation could force automakers to install rear-view cameras, power window reverse to prevent tragedies.

WASHINGTON -- In a bid to keep children safer, automakers could be forced to install rear-view cameras and power windows that automatically reverse under a bill to be introduced today.

The Cameron Gulbransen Kids and Cars Safety Act -- which U.S. Sens. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., and John Sununu, R-N.H., will introduce at a news conference today -- is named after a 2-year-old New York boy who was accidentally run over and killed in 2002 when his father backed his SUV out of his driveway.

"Nearly every other day, a child dies in the United States from a completely preventable tragedy -- backed over by a driver who could not see behind (the) vehicle, strangled in a power window or killed when an automobile inadvertently shifts into gear," Clinton said on the Senate floor in December. The bill "will help to ensure that America's cars (are) properly equipped to prevent these tragedies from happening."

A similar auto safety bill introduced in November 2005 did not pass.

Posted by Frank at 08:56 AM

Sony Helps Drivers Keep Their Hands on the Wheel

Bluetooth Car Stereo Allows Hands-free Calls and Streams Music Wirelessly

LAS VEGAS -- Sony's new AM/FM CD receiver for the car with Bluetooth technology (model MEX-BT2500) multi-tasks as both a CD player and a wireless streaming device.

Drivers can make safe, hands-free phone calls, listen to MP3 formatted CDs or wirelessly connect to Bluetooth-compatible digital music players on the road.

"This car stereo offers more functionality for less," said Brennan Mullin, director of marketing for mobile electronics at Sony Electronics. "With Bluetooth hands-free technology and audio streaming capabilities, you can't afford not to have it in the car. This is a perfect solution so drivers can communicate on their cell phones while driving."

Call 'Em on It

The MEX-BT2500 head unit, the company's second audio-streaming AM/FM CD receiver with wireless Bluetooth(R) technology, is easily paired with compatible Bluetooth enabled cellular phones. Up to five different phones can be linked to the receiver so the whole family can enjoy connectivity. An integrated microphone behind the faceplate eliminates the need for additional wiring, so the installation process is as quick and easy as an ordinary car stereo. Additionally, noise cancellation and echo reduction technology serve to enhance phone call clarity.

Music on the Road

Music-storing phones with Bluetooth technology supporting A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), including some Sony Ericsson Walkman(R) phones, will allow audio streaming from the handset to the MEX-BT2500 head unit. Consumers can check online whether their phone is compatible (either hands-free, audio streaming or both) by visiting the following link: www.sony.com/xplod.

For drivers who carry their music libraries on Bluetooth-enabled digital music players, the MEX-BT2500 unit supports both wired and wireless playback. Using Bluetooth technology, it's easy to play, pause, skip, fast-forward or back up songs. Key information including album, artist and track appears on the display through the wireless connection.

For non-Bluetooth digital music players, you can connect through the front auxiliary input on the front of the car stereo with an audio cable (not included). The CD player supports multiple codecs, including MP3 and WMA.

Crystal Clear Sound

The MEX-BT2500 car stereo delivers 52 watts across four channels to help ensure rich, clear sound. Blue key illumination looks good in nearly any dashboard, while the detachable faceplate provides an added measure of security.

Pricing and Availability

The MEX-BT2500 car stereo will be priced around $180. It will be available in March both online at www.sonystyle.com and at authorized retailers nationwide.

Source: Sony Electronics Inc.

Posted by Frank at 08:49 AM

Harley-Davidson Updates Guidance as Result of Strike

MILWAUKEE -- Harley-Davidson, Inc. announced today that it is updating guidance for motorcycle shipments for the first quarter of 2007 and financial guidance for the full year. Guidance is being revised to reflect the impact of a three week strike that concluded Thursday, February 22, 2007, at the Company's manufacturing facility in York, Pa. Full production at the Pennsylvania and Wisconsin plants is expected to resume over the next week. In all, the strike will result in a loss of approximately one month's production.

"While we are pleased to have reached an agreement with our unionized employees in York, a disruption of this magnitude has a significant impact on our business, as well as our suppliers, dealers, employees and our retail customers," said Tom Bergmann, Chief Financial Officer.

"Although the recovery process has begun, the immediate impact will be a reduction in our first quarter Harley-Davidson(R) motorcycle shipments from our previous guidance of 82,000 - 84,000 units, to revised guidance of 64,000 - 66,000 units. We expect to make up approximately 4,000 - 5,000 of these motorcycles during the remainder of the year resulting in full year shipment plans for approximately 14,000 fewer motorcycles than we originally planned. This decision was made after carefully evaluating our production constraints, supply chain issues, cost implications, timing of shipments to dealers, and the delayed start of 2008 model year production caused by the strike," said Bergmann.

For the full year 2007, Harley-Davidson now expects moderate revenue growth, lower margins, and earnings per share (EPS) growth in the range of 4 - 6 percent compared to 2006. The Company expects its EPS growth rate to return to 11 - 17 percent in 2008 and 2009.

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel, and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport and sport-touring motorcycles. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and customers.

Source: Harley-Davidson, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 08:49 AM

Navistar stops making diesels for Ford in dispute

Navistar International Corp. has halted the production and shipment of diesel engines offered in about 70 percent of Ford Motor Co.'s heavy-duty trucks, which account for 40 percent of the automaker's full-size pickup sales annually.

In suspending production, Navistar, which was sued by Ford in January for allegedly failing to live up its contract, said Monday that it hasn't been paid for the engines since the suit was filed.

Ford's suit, filed in a Michigan court, accuses the Warrenville-based engine supplier of not complying with a warranty cost-sharing agreement and "unjustifiably" raising prices on its diesel engine used in the F-Series line, the top-selling vehicle in North America for 25 years.

The clash threatens production of Ford's Super Duty pickups. After losing a record $12.7 billion last year, Ford is counting on the redesigned 2008 Super Duty line to help return it to profitability.

Ford spokeswoman Becky Sanch said the automaker has enough engines to continue building the trucks "near term," without specifying how long that would be.

But Bear Stearns analyst Peter Nesvold said in a research note that Ford and Navistar would feel the effect within 30 days. Ford buys 75 percent of Navistar's production of the 6.4-liter, Power Stroke diesel.

Posted by Frank at 08:35 AM

February 26, 2007

Report: Toyota to build plant in Mississippi

JACKSON, Miss. - Gov. Haley Barbour of Mississippi plans a major economic development announcement on Tuesday amid reports the state will become home to a Toyota Motor Corp. manufacturing plant.

The Nikkei, a Japanese business newspaper, said on its Web site Monday that Toyota had picked Mississippi for an $880 million sports utility vehicle plant.

Barbour spokesman Pete Smith, asked if the announcement involved Toyota, responded: “We’re not saying anything about it.” Daniel Sieger, spokesman for Toyota’s North American manufacturing division, said there was “nothing to announce at this moment.”

Posted by Frank at 07:27 PM

Volkswagen recalls 790,000 U.S. vehicles

WASHINGTON - Volkswagen of America Inc. said Monday it would recall 790,000 vehicles because of problems with the brake light switch.

The recall involves several vehicles: 1999-2006 model years of the Golf and GTI, 2001-2005 Jettas, 2001-2007 New Beetles and the 2004 R32. It expands upon a recall announced last year of some Jettas and New Beetles because of the same defect.

Volkswagen told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that the brake light switches in the vehicles could malfunction if they were improperly installed.

Posted by Frank at 01:59 PM

Toyota in LA County Earns Top Waste-Cutting Honors

Car company cuts waste, boosts savings

February 26, 2007 – Torrance, CA - The California Integrated Waste Management Board today honored Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. headquarters with the Waste Reduction Awards Program (WRAP) of the Year (WOTY). TMS was awarded with top honors in a field of more than 1,200 other Waste Reduction Awards Program (WRAP) winners for its success in waste reduction and recycling on its headquarters campus facility and Los Angeles Parts Distribution Center (LA PDC).

"Every year California reaps the benefits of conscientious and responsible companies that understand their responsibilities to the environment, economy and community," said Board Chair Margo Reid Brown. "It is truly amazing to see what can be accomplished when businesses recognize the potential impacts of their actions and then take steps to ensure they are part of the solution."

TMS received the honor partly due to the LA PDC's efforts to reduce waste generation by 40 percent since 2003, using programs such as returnable shipping containers, packaging reduction, and waste recycling. Additionally, the LA PDC implemented an auto glass recycling program, recycling 11 tons of glass windshields since the program began in August 2006. In December 2006, TMS also achieved zero waste to landfill at its headquarters campus.

"This recognition from the California Integrated Waste Management Board validates waste management efforts in commerce," said Bob Pitts, group vice president of administrative services. "In the spirit of our Global Earth Charter and our continuous improvement philosophy, we will work to pursue new and improved methods to lessen our environmental footprint."

In recognition of California businesses' widespread commitment to cutting their excess disposal tonnages, the Board bestowed WRAP honors, some of the most coveted State workplace conservation awards, on 1,254 retail and commercial outlets that managed to make the bottom line even greener in 2006. This year's WRAP honorees, comprising 1,254 businesses, diverted an estimated 1,207,827 tons of material, with a cost savings of approximately $112,213,589 to their bottom line.
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Established in 1957, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion in the United States, marketing products and services through a network of more than 1,400 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers in 49 states. For more information about our company, please visit http://www.toyota.com/, http://www.lexus.com/ and http://www.scion.com/.

Previous Years Awarded: 2005
Innovative and environmentally conscientious businesses have helped move California to a waste reduction and recycling pinnacle, diverting enormous amounts of materials from landfills, conserving limited natural resources by re-marketing salvaged goods, cutting disposal related expenses and reaping financial gains from doing what's right.

Approximately half of the state's 88 million-ton annual waste stream comes from the business sector and the WRAP awards honor California companies and nonprofits for workplace solutions to cut waste and reduce disposal. This year 1,254 businesses are being recognized for their commitment to a range of environmentally preferable business practices, including innovative reuse and recycling achievements, resource conservation, donating usable goods to nonprofit organizations, conducting employee education programs, buying recycled-content supplies for the workplace, and managing electronic waste responsibly. With better materials management, many businesses realize substantial savings in operating costs.

To search and view a complete list of local WRAP winners and their locations by county, please visit this site: http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/WRAP/Search.asp.

Open to nesses and private, nonprofit organizations, the WRAP awards were initiated in 1993 to recognize California companies busithat develop innovative and aggressive programs to reduce the amount of nonhazardous solid waste they generate. To date, more than 15,000 WRAP honors have been awarded. For continuing, and often increasing, their waste reduction practices from year to year, many businesses have earned the award several times since the program started.

All WRAP awardees receive a certificate of recognition from the Chair and Members of the California Integrated Waste Management Board, as well as the right to use the WRAP logo for promotional advertising and publicity about their accomplishments.

The California Integrated Waste Management Board is the state's leading authority on recycling and waste reduction. It promotes reducing waste whenever possible, managing all materials to their highest and best use and protecting public health and safety and the environment.

The California Integrated Waste Management Board is one of six boards, departments, and offices within the California Environmental Protection Agency (Cal/EPA).

Posted by Frank at 01:42 PM

California Auto Sales Exceed 2 Million, Despite Disappointing 2006

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Auto sales in California are predicted to exceed two million units again in 2007, according to the fourth quarter California Auto Outlook report scheduled for release next week by the California Motor Car Dealers Association (CMCDA).

Although total new vehicle sales remain respectable by historical standards, 2006 finished poorly. New light vehicle registrations during the fourth quarter of last year decreased 7.9 percent from relatively weak year-earlier levels. For the entire year, the market declined 5.1 percent from 2005. The market is headed for another decline this year with registrations predicted to slide 2.3 percent.

Posted by Frank at 01:26 PM

Enterprise Founder Gives $25 Million to Create Institute for Renewable Fuels

New Institute Demonstrates Corporate Commitment to Sustainability Through Innovative Research in Plant Science, Biofuels

ST. LOUIS -- The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center today announced that Jack and Susan Taylor have given a $25 million gift to create the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Institute for Renewable Fuels. The Institute is named for the company founded by Jack Taylor in 1957 and still owned by the Taylor family.

The Enterprise Rent-A-Car Institute will expand the scientific expertise of the Danforth Center to speed up development of plant-based renewable biofuels. These fuels will decrease the level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and reduce the current dependency on finite fossil fuels in future years.

"We are very grateful to Jack and Susan Taylor for their generous gift to expand the Danforth Center's basic research in plant science and address the growing need for biofuels," said Danforth Center Chairman Dr. William H. Danforth. "This gift establishes a truly unique partnership to address an important issue for future generations by utilizing the latest advances in plant science."

The $25 million gift will endow a team of researchers to significantly expand the Danforth Center's renewable biofuels research capabilities. It comes on the heels of Enterprise's pledge to underwrite the planting of 50 million trees in national forests over the next 50 years -- a commitment of $50 million in today's dollars.

"For 50 years, this company that my father built from the ground up has relied on the availability of vehicles and fuel," said Andrew C. Taylor, chairman and CEO of Enterprise Rent-A-Car. "Today, more than ever, it is essential that we pursue new energy sources that will sustain not only our business, but also the environment around us for future generations. The creation of the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Institute for Renewable Fuels sends a clear message that my family and our company are committed to help address this critical public need."

A distinguished scientific leader with strong credentials in renewable biofuels research will be recruited to direct the Enterprise Rent-A-Car Institute. The Danforth Center will also recruit 12 additional new scientists during the next three years who will join 18 current Danforth scientists to engage in research at the Institute.

"The issue of growing plants to provide a source of food while at the same time meeting our increasing demand for renewable energy is of greater concern each day," said Roger N. Beachy, president of the Danforth Center. "This commitment from Jack and Susan Taylor will advance our efforts to unlock novel scientific ideas that ultimately will lead to renewable biofuels that are plentiful and cost-effective."

This is the second sizable gift the Taylor family has made to the Danforth Center, and it completes the Center's Campaign for a Green Future, a $100 million campaign launched in 2004 with a $50 million matching grant from the Danforth Foundation. In September 2005, Jack and Susan Taylor gave $10 million to the Center, which was at that time the largest gift to the campaign. Today's $25 million gift will be matched by the Danforth Foundation, thus completing the initial round of fundraising for the endowment.

About The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center

Founded in 1998, the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center is a not-for- profit research institute with a global vision to improve the human condition through plant science. Research at the Danforth Center is designed to feed the hungry and improve human health, preserve and renew the environment, and enhance the St. Louis region as a world center for plant science. Please visit http://www.danforthcenter.org/ for additional information.

Source: Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Posted by Frank at 12:03 PM

Mattel putting girls in driver's seat

They're small, fast and made for racing. But they are also pink or purple and sparkly, and come with a tiny doll.

Girls are getting their own line of $3 toy race cars this year from the maker of Matchbox — half a century after that brand, now owned by Mattel Inc., introduced its classic die-cast toy for boys.

Long after the women's movement prompted equality in playthings, with sewing sets for boys and tool kits for girls, no major toy company had endeavored to create an entire line of miniature die-cast racers just for girls.

"Sometimes you just see things that you look at, scratch your head and say, 'Why didn't anybody think of this before?' " said Jim Silver, editor and co-publisher of Toy Wishes magazine. "It's so obvious, but nobody has really done it."

As its new line hits store shelves, El Segundo-based Mattel is trying to combine two of its bestsellers — dolls and cars.

The company recently introduced its initial collection of 25 Polly Wheels — cars driven by its Polly Pocket dolls — at the American International Toy Fair in New York.

The question is whether today's doll-playing set — and the parents who shop for them — will want them.

One expert in gender and development, who has studied how boys and girls choose toys, sees promise in the idea.

By adding the doll and using themes such as taking a trip to the mall, Mattel introduces a social dimension to the Polly Wheels race cars that is more likely to appeal to girls, said psychologist Gerianne M. Alexander, an associate professor at Texas A&M University.

Posted by Frank at 12:00 PM

Hybrid Vehicle Registration Growth-Rate Slows in 2006

Market Volume Surpasses 250,000 Units, Toyota Continues to Lead

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. -- Nationwide registrations for new hybrid vehicles rose to 254,545 in 2006 - a 28 percent increase from 2005, according to R. L. Polk & Co. The increase is the second-lowest year-over- year increase since 2000.

California continues to lead the nation in hybrid vehicle registrations. Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego contribute to the state's leadership with more registrations than any other metropolitan market, combining for 22.3 percent of all hybrid registrations.

"Consumers know that hybrids are important to the environment, but they are not the only option," said Lonnie Miller, director of Industry Analysis for R. L. Polk & Co. "Automakers still have obstacles to overcome to prove the merit of owning a hybrid, including educating customers about developing hybrid technology; debunking the myth that hybrids are only needed when gas prices rise and general apathy or risk averse attitudes toward the relatively new-to-market technology. The challenge is for automakers to stay the course and to continue exploring fuel-efficient viable options for next-generation vehicles."

Overall, the hybrid category reflects just over 1.5 percent of all new vehicle registrations in the U.S. For the third year in a row, Toyota Prius led the segment with 42.8 percent of new registrations.

"The Prius continues to set the pace for this category. However, with several models debuting over the next two years, and many in the works for the near future, Toyota market share will be challenged. We will see if it can maintain its foothold at the top," said Miller.

Following the Toyota Prius, the Toyota Highlander was the second most- registered hybrid model, taking 12.5 percent of the category, followed by the Honda Civic, with 12.3 percent of all new hybrid registrations. Combined, Toyota and Lexus had more than 75 percent of all new hybrid registrations in 2006.

The core set of hybrid vehicles offered today are automobiles powered by internal combustion engines, and are equipped with batteries recharged during driving and an electric motor to assist with power demand. Hybrids deliver exceptional mileage compared to their gas-only counterparts and are considered environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.

CONSUMER REACTION

In mid-2006, the Polk Center for Automotive Studies conducted a poll of over 700 consumers regarding their hybrid viewpoints. More than half of respondents strongly or somewhat believe every vehicle sold today should have a hybrid version offered. Similarly, nearly 50 percent of participants support paying for fuel-efficient technology now so later generations can benefit.

"It can be challenging to get consumers to think long term with their vehicle purchases, but these results are encouraging," said Miller. "The fact

that many Americans are familiar with and interested in fuel-efficient technology on a base level is influential to the industry."

Top 10 Hybrid States (2006 Calendar Year)

Rank State Total New Hybrid Registrations

1 California 67,533
2 Florida 12,900
3 Texas 12,550
4 New York 11,634
5 Virginia 10,424
6 Illinois 9,495
7 Washington 8,650
8 Pennsylvania 8,407
9 Massachusetts 7,365
10 New Jersey 7,021
Combined Top 10 155,979

Source: R. L. Polk & Co. U.S. New Hybrid Registrations, 2006 Calendar Year.

Source: R. L. Polk & Co.

Posted by Frank at 10:36 AM

New Aerokit makes the Porsche Cayman even sportier

Stuttgart -- Porsche AG has begun to supply Aerokits for its Cayman und Cayman S sports cars. This new customizing equipment consists of add-on spoiler lips for the standard front-end apron panel and a new, fixed rear spoiler.

Designed by engineers at the Porsche Development Center in Weissach, the Aerokit gives the Cayman even more ‘bite’ and even sportier, more dynamic looks.

The front spoiler lips emphasize the visual power of the big air inlets in the front apron. The new, fixed rear wing creates a strong visual accent even when the car is standing still. Along with the car’s appearance, its aerodynamics have also been upgraded.

The Aerokit’s components, optimized in Porsche’s wind tunnel, reduce lift at the front and rear axles, making the car even more stable at high speeds. The aerodynamic components have been carefully matched and must therefore only be installed as a complete set. All the items in the Aerokit are supplied in the car’s body color and harmonize well with the Cayman’s dynamic styling.

Porsche supplies this Aerokit on all international markets. In Germany, it can be ordered via Porsche Exclusive for 3,500 Euros (excluding value-added tax) for installation on a new car. For later customization, it will be available starting in March 2007 from Porsche Tequipment for 2,950 Euros excluding VAT, installation and spraying.

Posted by Frank at 10:26 AM

Mercedes-Benz unveils Vision C 220 BLUETEC in Geneva

First four-cylinder BLUETEC model: well on the way to complying with the EURO 6 emission standard

Stuttgart, Feb 26, 2007 -- Mercedes-Benz is unveiling its highly environmentally-compatible BLUETEC emission-control technology in combination with a consumption-optimised four-cylinder engine for the first time at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show.

In terms of ensuring compliance with the even stricter EURO 6 emission standard, applicable to all new vehicles Europe-wide from 2015, the Vision C 220 BLUETEC shows the way ahead. Boasting an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and a peak torque of 400 Nm, the Vision C 220 BLUETEC now requires 5.5 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres, thanks largely to modified diesel engine technology and an intelligent system of energy management.

"The sophisticated four-cylinder diesel engine with BLUETEC emission control is a prime example of leading-edge, future-compatible technology," explains Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler AG and Head of the Mercedes Car Group. "Our diesel strategy is an effective answer to the question of how to save fuel and, therefore, CO2, how to further reduce all exhaust emissions including NOx and yet still ensure effortlessly superior driving enjoyment. In this respect, we believe our state-of-the-art diesel concept is currently the best and most efficient solution available."

With the Vision C 220 BLUETEC, Mercedes-Benz is providing a taste of things to come as part of its BLUETEC initiative which was launched in the US last autumn. The initial impetus came from the market launch of the E 320 BLUETEC in North America in October 2006, which was timed to coincide with the introduction of low-sulphur diesel in that part of the world. A fuel consumption figure of 6.7 litres per hundred kilometres makes the E 320 BLUETEC one of the most economical vehicles in its class in the US.

With the first four-cylinder BLUETEC model, Mercedes-Benz illustrates just how versatile this innovative technology can be. Following the US launch, the company will also introduce BLUETEC in other markets. The technology is currently being adapted to European market requirements and further Mercedes Benz models, the aim being to also offer BLUETEC in passenger cars for European customers, starting in 2008.

BLUETEC – high-tech for the cleanest diesels in the world

BLUETEC is a DaimlerChrysler-developed technology designed to reduce diesel vehicle emissions, especially nitrogen oxides – the only exhaust-gas constituents that are still higher in today's diesel engines than they are in their petrol counterparts due to the principle involved. Mercedes-Benz is working intensively to optimise its engines and their combustion processes so as to minimise the nitrogen oxides before they are actually produced. In terms of "hardware", the sophisticated four-cylinder powerplant in the Vision C 220 BLUETEC, like the standard-production engines, includes four valves per cylinder, third-generation common-rail direct injection, a turbocharger with a variable nozzle turbine and exhaust gas recirculation. A highly sensitive electronic engine management unit reacts precisely to an extremely wide range of operating conditions and, in so doing, optimises the combustion processes.

The BLUETEC technology in the Vision C 220 BLUETEC still includes an oxidising catalytic converter, which reduces emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbons (HC), as well as a particulate filter. A modified NOx storage catalytic converter with a substantially extended service life, including patented on-board ammonia generation, is combined with an additional SCR catalytic converter to minimise nitrogen oxides. This process of exhaust-gas aftertreatment requires no additives.

Vision C 220 BLUETEC combines environmental awareness, driving enjoyment and comfort

The results are impressive whichever way you look at them: on the one hand, the concept car equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission consumes just 5.5 litres of diesel per hundred kilometres (NEDC); on the other hand, it delivers the same impressive output and torque figures whilst providing a unique combination of efficiency and driving enjoyment. The Vision C 220 BLUETEC is prepared for future emission standards, even the considerably more stringent limits imposed by EURO 6, which will apply to all new vehicles from September 1, 2015. For instance, particulate emissions must be reduced by a factor of five by the time the EURO 5 standard comes into force on January 1, 2011 whilst EURO 6 stipulates nitrogen oxide limits that are only around 30 percent of the current limits. All Mercedes-Benz diesel vehicles with a particulate filter fitted as standard already undercut the particulate limits that will apply from 2011 onwards.

For the US market, Mercedes-Benz will be offering three further V6 BLUETEC models – R Class, M-Class and GL-Class – with BIN-5 certification for all 50 states from as early as 2008. At the Detroit Auto Show in early January, the Stuttgart-based manufacturer demonstrated just how suitable the clean, economical, high torque engines are for large cars and SUVs: the V8 diesel engine in the Vision GL 420 BLUETEC that was on display at the show has an output of 216 kW/290 hp, a peak torque of 700 Nm and an expected fuel consumption of just 9.8 litres per hundred kilometres.

New C-Class: CO2 emissions already reduced by 15 percent

The standard-production version of the new C-Class, which celebrates its premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, is testament to the successful work performed by Mercedes-Benz in its quest to consistently reduce both fuel consumption and emissions. A lifecycle assessment carried out on the new Saloon, certified by the German technical inspection authorities (TÜV), confirms that the carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions for what is now the fourth-generation C-Class have been reduced by 15 percent.

By way of example, the experts who performed the lifecycle assessment calculated that the total energy requirement of the new C-Class is 125 gigajoules lower than that of the previous model, equivalent to around 3800 litres of fuel. Since the year 2000, the carbon dioxide emissions have fallen by nine tonnes (15 percent) per vehicle.

The reduction in exhaust-gas emissions is equally impressive: compared to the previous model produced in the year 2000, the sophisticated technology at the heart of the new C-Class cuts nitrogen oxide emissions by around 20 percent and hydrocarbons by twelve percent, according to the lifecycle assessment. Mean-while, particulate emissions from the diesel models have fallen by over 90 percent thanks to the fitting of a maintenance-free particulate filter as standard.

The new C-Class is the only car in the world in this market segment to have been awarded the Environment Certificate, thus underlining the Saloon's environmentally compatible product development.

Posted by Frank at 10:23 AM

Honda Racing F1 Team Launches Pioneering Environmental Concept

LONDON, U.K., February 26, 2007 – The Honda Racing F1 Team announced a major new initiative for the 2007 Formula 1 season. To help raise awareness of the environmental issues facing the planet, the RA107 F1 car will simply feature a huge image of earth, in place of the advertising and sponsor logos which have featured and dominated all other F1 cars for decades.

The car’s new look is a powerful call to action for fans, sponsors, customers and members of the public to join Honda’s commitment to help address the environmental issues facing the world.

Via the website www.myearthdream.com anyone who wishes, will have the opportunity to have their name on the car, make a pledge to make a lifestyle change to improve the environment and make a donation to an environmental charity. Under the concept of “our car is your car”, each name will form a tiny individual pixel which will help build the image of planet earth on the car. Each name will be visible on the website when you make the pledge or under a microscope on the car.

Universal Music, the largest music company in the world, and Gatorade are the first global brands to partner the team in this exciting new concept. Existing partners have enthusiastically embraced the idea and all remain involved with the team for the 07 season. In addition, the team is delighted to announce that Fila, IBM, Instron, Oliver Sweeney, Perkin Elmer, Showa Denko, TUV and GF Agie Charmilles have joined the roster of team partners and suppliers.

The Honda Racing F1 Team will work closely with global environmental charities to develop Honda’s existing environmental ethos within the world’s most high profile motor-sport.

Nick Fry, Chief Executive Officer, Honda Racing F1 Team:
“Climate change is probably the single biggest issue facing the global community and F1 is not immune from it. On the contrary we believe that F1 with its huge global profile and cutting edge technology can play an important role in not only highlighting the issues but also playing our part in developing solutions. In addition, the FIA recognizes the opportunity for F1 to showcase innovative technologies for the benefit of society for the long term. For example, by 2009, devices for energy recovery will be in place on the cars.

“So we at Honda F1 are proud to dedicate our car to the environmental challenge. We believe that practical solutions can stem directly from engineers working on our F1 program. They are working harder than ever to achieve our dreams and win the World Championship while embracing and underscoring Honda’s environmental ethos.

“First and foremost, we are a race team and F1 is very much a team sport. We achieve our racing objectives only by working together and parallels can be drawn with the way that we must all join together to address the environmental challenge. We hope that in raising awareness and highlighting the issues we will encourage members of the public to come together and help take on the challenge of climate change. ”

Yasuhiro Wada, Chairman, Honda Racing F1 Team and General Manager, Honda Motor Company:
“Honda has a huge desire to challenge for this year’s 2007 F1 World Championship. We hope this year will be a successful and exciting season. Equally we intend to give something back in the form of our new environmental F1 concept, which we believe will bring something fresh and new to motor sport.”

“Honda constantly strives to be innovative in both its technology and its thinking and to sincerely respond to the demands of customers and society. Honda has always made great efforts to contribute to the preservation of the environment in its corporate activity. We hope this new initiative for Honda in F1 will help to further stimulate awareness and interest across the world for these important environmental issues.”

Posted by Frank at 10:19 AM

2008 Ford Taurus Delivers Quiet Quality

DEARBORN -- From expandable foam pellets in the A-pillars that help reduce wind noise to hydraulic engine mounts that reduce overall vehicle vibration, the 2008 Ford Taurus is a testament to quiet quality.

From a customer perspective, interior quietness is often associated with overall vehicle quality. With that in mind, the Taurus team set out to deliver an interior quietness package that rivals many luxury cars.

"The Taurus is now a leader in that regard," said Paul Larkins, Ford manager of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH). "We continue to examine every possible way to reduce road and wind noise, as well as structure-borne noise inside the cabin, so that the human ear can easily and comfortably hear speech."

The new Taurus sound package includes the use of an advanced sound-deadening material called Sonosorb™ in the doors, headliner and pillars that improve the vehicle's sound-deadening efficiency by 20 percent.

Even the new climate control system is quieter than before.

"Nearly every part of the heating and cooling system was changed," said Ben Winter, 2008 Taurus lead engineer. "When the fan is on maximum, the new climate control system is 50 percent quieter than the outgoing model and delivers improved performance."

With the introduction of Ford's new 3.5-liter Duratec 35 V-6 to the Taurus, one of the most significant changes is how the engine is mounted to the vehicle. Previously mounted to the front subframe, the engine and transmission on the 2008 Taurus are bolted to the body with hydraulic mounts to reduce vibration.

By moving the roughly 600-pound powerpack off the subframe, engineers were able to better tune the suspension and, ultimately, create an even better ride.

To combat wind noise, side mirrors were made smaller and given a more aerodynamic shape for less turbulence.

The team was also able to reduce vibration by reshaping the area under the rear window -- called the rear package shelf -- and stiffening the area where the shelf meets the floor.

The Taurus isn't the only vehicle benefiting from the work of Ford's NVH team. Similar sound packages have been applied to the 2008 models of the Taurus X, Escape and Focus, Mercury Sable and Mariner and the 2007 Ford Expedition.

"Exceptional cabin quietness has already contributed to customer satisfaction in the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX," said Larkins. "For Ford's engineering teams the focus on best-of-class interior acoustics will continue with every vehicle we make."

Posted by Frank at 10:01 AM

Bryant Park Sets the Stage Super-Size 'Snowdoku' Puzzle

The Chrysler brand is heating up the sudoku craze in the Big Apple by transforming the traditionally solitary game of sudoku into a high-energy, must-see outdoor sporting event called "Chrysler Aspen Snowdoku Challenge."

Teams of up to eight sudoku puzzle players will be invited to New York City on Tuesday, February 27, to go head-to-head to solve a giant, larger-than-life "Snowdoku(TM)" puzzle made out of 36,000 pounds of snow and ice. The best-in-class team that solves the puzzle in the quickest amount of time will win a trip to Aspen, Colo. and will ride in style during their stay in an all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen, the brand's first sport utility vehicle.

Since making its U.S. newspaper debut in New York City in 2005, sudoku has become a national phenomenon. In just two years, sudoku books have knocked crossword puzzle books off best-seller lists, and some airlines have started encouraging passengers to play sudoku to relieve stress during take-off and landing. Around the world, sudoku has become so popular that it is responsible for a 700 percent increase in pencil sales in England. (Source: The Independent of London.)

To illustrate the magnitude of sudoku's popularity and celebrate the introduction of the Chrysler Aspen - the brand's first Sport Utility Vehicle -- Chrysler is introducing "Snowdoku(TM)" a super- size sudoku puzzle built out of snow, in the city where sudoku first appeared.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 09:56 AM

Team Detroit Adds Marketing Expertise to Ford, Lincoln and Mercury Accounts with Appointment

Jim Sanfilippo Joins Team Detroit as Chief Marketing Officer

DETROIT -- George S. Rogers, president and CEO of Team Detroit, the group of WPP agencies that service Ford Motor Company, today announced that Jim Sanfilippo is joining Team Detroit's Ford, Lincoln and Mercury accounts as Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer.

Currently executive vice president, senior industry analyst at Automotive Marketing Consultants Inc. (AMCI) in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., Sanfilippo is one of the most respected authorities on automotive marketing. At AMCI, he was a company leader and well known consultant who was deeply involved in AMCI's Advertising Claim Certification and "New Media" experiential marketing programs. AMCI has worked for nearly every significant automotive company and brand in North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

He is a 30-year marketing veteran who has worked for both automakers and agencies servicing Chevrolet, Volkswagen of America, Porsche, Audi, Dodge, Hyundai and Kia.

Sanfilippo will report to George Rogers, Team Detroit president and CEO and partner with the leaders of JWT Detroit, Y&R, Wunderman, Group M and Ogilvy. His role at Team Detroit will be to establish strategic marketing direction as well as partner with the Strategic Services Team in charge of advanced strategies and product marketing for Ford.

"Jim's experience and ability to think strategically and creatively will be a real asset across the board for our Ford client," said Rogers. "To have such a deeply experienced automotive authority on our team will bring new perspectives to every conversation we have about the all-important Ford, Lincoln and Mercury customer."

"I really respect Ford and its turnaround efforts," said Sanfilippo. "I'm looking forward to working with all the brands to reach consumers with messaging and experiences about Ford's solid products, original styling and surprising powertrain breakthroughs."

A political science graduate of UCLA, Sanfilippo lives in Harrison Township, Mich.

ABOUT TEAM DETROIT

Team Detroit is the joint venture comprised of the WPP Detroit-based offices of its top marketing communications agencies - JWT, Y&R, Wunderman, Ogilvy, and GroupM media companies Mediaedge:cia and MindShare. It was launched in January 2007 and works from headquarters in Dearborn, Mich. In addition to servicing Ford, Team Detroit's clients include Bosch, Domino's regional, Delta Dental, DuPont Automotive, Great Lakes Crossing, Oakwood Hospital, Shell, United Way of Southeast Michigan, and White Castle.

Source: Team Detroit

Posted by Frank at 09:55 AM

First Glimpse at Third Generation, In-Vehicle Telematics

Steve Millstein, CEO of ATX, International Telematics Provider, to Discuss Next Wave of In-Vehicle Information Applications at March 9, The Fully Networked Car Event in Geneva

DUSSELDORF, Germany -- A preview into the next generation of in-vehicle telematics applications--dubbed T3 Telematics--is on tap for March 9 when the President and CEO of the world's largest independent telematics provider, ATX Group, addresses The Fully Networked Car Exhibition and Workshop in Geneva, Switzerland, sponsored by the World Standards Cooperation. The event is being held in concert with the Geneva International Motor Show.

Mr. Millstein, recognized as a pioneer in the telematics industry, will reveal the factors driving the recent expansion of a global telematics platform that is emerging today in North America and migrating to Europe. New applications associated with this platform involve managing vehicle and customer data and voice information to give automobile manufacturers, dealerships and owners more insight into performance of the vehicle and its immediate environment (ie. traffic, weather, commercial events). The T3 platform also will enable owners to have continual connectivity with their vehicles through the Internet, potentially transforming every vehicle into a voice browser.

T3 telematics can extend beyond embedded vehicle applications to aftermarket devices brought into the car, such as personal navigation devices. As these devices become more prolific, the ability of drivers to safely send and receive more information will transform the driving experience.

Based in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, area and Dusseldorf, Germany, ATX Group is the largest multinational provider of telematics services for the automobile industry, serving both North America and Europe. ATX telematics services are designed to provide enhanced safety, security and driving convenience to vehicle owners. These services include location-specific emergency and roadside assistance, automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle recovery, remote diagnostics and real-time traffic and navigation assistance. ATX, the largest independent telematics provider not owned by an automobile manufacturer or telecommunications firm, also provides telematics services designed to help automobile manufacturers and their affiliated dealerships to use telematics data to reduce costs, enhance vehicle servicing, and more closely manage customer relationships. ATX services are provided to vehicle owners through the brand names of its customers--Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Maybach, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. For more information, visit www.atxg.com.

Source: ATX Group

Posted by Frank at 09:53 AM

Miss America to Teach Chicago 1st Graders the ABC's of Alcohol to Prevent Underage Drinking

State Farm to Donate MADD's Protecting You/Protecting Me Alcohol Use Prevention

Miss America 2006 Jennifer Berry will teach Chicago 1st graders a lesson from Mothers Against Drunk Driving's alcohol use prevention program, Protecting You/Protecting Me on Tuesday, February 27 at Bell Elementary School. State Farm, the national presenting sponsor of Protecting You/Protecting Me, will announce it's donating the "youth-led" program including the curriculum, training and materials to seven elementary schools and seven high schools in Chicago. The lesson by Berry is an example of what high school students will be teaching the younger classes this fall.

Berry, whose platform is "Building Intolerance to Drunk Driving and Underage Drinking," volunteered for five years to implement Protecting You/Protecting Me in Oklahoma schools. Berry knows firsthand the loss of a loved one. Her 15-year-old high school friend was killed in an underage drunk driving crash.

MADD's Protecting You/Protecting Me is the only curriculum of its kind that educates elementary students on the ABC's of alcohol: Alcohol's harmful effects, Brain development and Car safety, including how to stay safe if riding with an alcohol-impaired driver. Implemented in 28 states, Protecting You/Protecting Me is proven effective in helping prevent underage drinking by educating students before they take their first drink of alcohol, which could be as early as age 12. A recent study showed that Chicago had the highest rate of binge drinking among those 12 and older in the top 15 metropolitan areas.

Alcohol is the No. 1 drug problem among American youth and kills more young people than all other drugs combined. Research shows that the earlier a person begins drinking, the more likely they are to become drinking drivers and alcohol dependent as an adult. Two-thirds of children killed in alcohol-related crashes were riding with a drinking driver. MADD's mission is to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking. For more information, visit www.madd.org or www.pypm.org.

Source: Mothers Against Drunk Driving

Posted by Frank at 09:50 AM

Baseball Pitcher Curt Schilling 'Calls the Plays' on TomTom Portable Navigation Devices

Icon of America's Favorite Pastime Tells Drivers How to Find Their Way Home - And Anywhere Else - Without Committing Errors!

CONCORD, Mass. -- TomTom, the world's largest navigation solution provider, today announced that baseball all-star Curt Schilling will be telling drivers across America how to find their way home.

Schilling's voice is available for purchase and download now for all owners of TomTom portable navigation devices.

"My TomTom has been invaluable to me as I attempt to learn the ways in and around our home in Boston," Schilling said. "It's been a huge help in learning the direct routes to and from the areas my family and I travel. TomTom navigation devices make driving not only more efficient, but safer for my family."

Schilling added, "The company has been outstanding to work with and I am glad to have developed a relationship between my gaming company, GMG, and TomTom -- two Boston-area businesses."

TomTom's portable navigation devices offer 70 preloaded voices in 36 languages. Other entertaining voices available for download from TomTom and Navtones include celebrities such as Burt Reynolds, Dennis Hopper and Mr. T., as well as a NYC cab driver, a Freudian psychoanalyst, Granny Rose and many more.

"We know our customers have a very personal connection with their TomTom," said Jocelyn Vigreux, president of TomTom Inc. "Now, with the recognizable voice of Curt Schilling, the journey becomes more enjoyable and fun. Similar to ring tones on cell phones, we find that drivers are most interested in hearing navigation directions from a voice that matches their mood, personality or interest. TomTom is continually adding content that allows customers to personalize their navigation experiences."

TomTom devices guide drivers on their way with audible, turn-by-turn instructions and 3D maps. TomTom portable navigation devices work out of the box and require no additional fees or services.

Now drivers can have Curt Schilling tell them how to find out-of-the-way locations or how to navigate to specific points of interest such as Fenway Park. Instead of a TomTom device saying, "You have reached your destination", Curt Schilling will instead call the play, telling the driver "You're almost home! Slide! Slide!"

Schilling's voice is available for download immediately for $12.95. Go to http://www.tomtom.com/plus to see and hear a complete list of voices and for easy-to-download instructions.

Source: TomTom

Posted by Frank at 09:48 AM

February 25, 2007

The new Audi A5/S5

INGOLSTADT, Germany - Audi is launching a fascinating new model series for its entry into a highly emotionally charged segment of the market: the A5 successfully unites the acclaimed Audi design language and thrilling dynamic driving performance, and combines generous refinement with the brand’s characteristic quality and sophistication.

Its progressive design gives the new coupé an appearance that is both elegant and dynamic. With its muscular FSI and TDI engines, its entirely newly developed high-precision running gear, and a raft of innovative, luxury-class equipment features, the Audi A5 has been crafted to be a modern grand tourer, a touring coupé in the best tradition.

The Audi S5 is an extra sporty offering to complete the new series. A powerful V8 FSI engine gives the S5 a dynamic edge, which underscores its athletically accentuated design. The A5 and S5 are available to order from 6 March 2007 with the first vehicles due for delivery from June.

The Nuvolari quattro concept car of 2003 gave a first taste of Audi’s vision for a powerful and expertly styled coupé with a high performance potential and a progressive, sophisticated design – a bold step into the future.

Many elements from the Nuvolari have been adopted in the Audi A5. The new coupé is a clear and unique statement of sportiness and elegance. At the same time, the A5 offers a driving experience characterised by exhilarating dynamic performance and excellent comfort over long distances.

With a length of 4.63 m, the Audi A5 clearly belongs to a superior class of coupé. Four comfortable seats and a load volume of 455 liters make this car a comfortable long-distance tourer. The dynamic performance is supplied by FSI and TDI engines with rated power ranging from 125 to 195 kW (170 to 265 bhp). All engines share highly eco-friendly and efficient characteristics.

The engines’ power can be transmitted by either front-wheel drive or quattro four-wheel drive and a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox. The running gear developed for the A5 is entirely new and combines agile handling with the utmost driving safety.

The design

Quite simply a desirable coupé

For coupé buyers, emotion plays a major role in their choice of car; the most important reason to buy, in the case of a sporty two-door car, is the design. And on that point the Audi A5 genuinely speaks for itself – its design takes Audi’s progressive and stylish design language to new heights. The sporty silhouette, the precisely drawn lines, which gracefully interplay with the powerful surfaces, the expressive front face, and the equally distinctive tail end yield a wholly desirable coupé. “The Audi A5 is the most beautiful car I have ever designed”, says Walter de’Silva, Head of Volkswagen Group Design, with absolute conviction.

Sportiness, elegance and dynamic performance are characteristics common to all of today’s Audi models. Naturally the A5 is particularly rich in these elements of the Audi “genetic code”, and the design makes that immediately clear: the coupé’s proportions, for instance, are characterised by a very wide and low stance, a short front overhang and a long, flowing transition from the C pillar to the tail end.

Lines and surfaces play with light and shadows

An expression of determination characterises the features of the front end: the face bears the hallmark of the new Audi in the form of the single-frame grille, and its right-angled headlights and large air inlets reinforce the architectural impression of breadth in the car’s face-on outline. The same holds true for the rear: the distinct horizontal lines and wide, powerfully styled tail lights, which seem to push outwards, underscore the sporting intent of the A5.

The side line is dominated by the mighty trapezoidal C pillar. This not only emphasises the car’s sporty appeal, but also creates a look reminiscent of the legendary Audi Ur-quattro.

A second stylistic tribute to Audi’s four-wheel drive pioneer model can be found in the marked outline of the wheel arches, with their curving contours drawn into the wide shoulder line. The lines and surfaces of the Audi A5 play with light and shadows, bringing its shape to life and endowing the body with the sculpted intensity that makes Audi design unique.

Audi’s customary devotion to detail is particularly evident in the headlights: their elaborate styling perfectly reflects precision and high-tech engineering. The daytime running lights, comprising a strip of eight LEDs on each side, make the A5’s xenon plus headlights absolutely unmistakeable.

The interior

The luxurious perfection of an Audi

The interior, the interface between person and vehicle, is characterised by ergonomic design and functionality, and equally by the exclusiveness of the materials selected and Audi’s typically superb build quality. An atmosphere in which you feel perfectly at ease, even on long journeys – that is the key feature of the A5 interior.

Making interior design a high-quality tactile experience

The entire cockpit architecture is clearly focused on the driver and brings together the instruments and the centre console to form one unit. The animated shapes, the precision of the workmanship, and the sophisticated design of the controls – these represent a visual delight that is also a joy to touch. The interior design provides a high-quality tactile experience each time you drive the Audi A5. One example of the all-encompassing design approach can be found in the door panel trim, where the controls, inlays, armrest and stowage compartment combine to form one visually harmonious unit.

The instrument panel, with the characteristic droplet-shaped surrounds for the speedometer and rev counter, does feature typical Audi styling elements, but in all its details has been developed as a new design.

The A5 also has the screen of the MMI operating system positioned at an ergonomically perfect high position in the cockpit. A new advanced version of the acclaimed intuitive MMI operating logic makes the wide range of functions easy to understand.

Key with a sharp memory

The new key is another design item that also provides sophisticated functionality. With its soft contours and pleasant surfaces it sits beautifully in the hand. But above all, the innovative key dispenses with the conventional key bit. This is possible because it communicates electronically with the vehicle’s electrical system as soon as it is inserted into the cockpit. It can also store important information, such as the vehicle’s current mileage or warning messages from the Audi A5’s driver information system. The data are always up-to-date and available to allow after-sales staff at a dealership to receive the vehicle for servicing quickly and easily.

The engines

For powerful driving pleasure

A coupé with a distinctly sporty character requires powerful and highly efficient engines. For the Audi A5, power is provided by innovative technologies across the board. All engines supplied for the new model series feature direct fuel injection, for which the petrol engines employ the FSI concept and the diesels are equipped with common rail TDI. This gives all engines a thrilling free-revving character, allowing them to effortlessly unwind their generous torque with optimum energy efficiency. The refined TDI engines with their outstanding sporting talents suit the A5 just as well as the petrol units. Which type to go for is entirely a question of the driver’s personal preference. All of the engines impressively demonstrate that efficiency and driving pleasure are by no means mutually exclusive.

FSI – The high-tech engine with variable valve lift

The top-of-the-range petrol engine in the Audi A5 is a new 3.2-liter FSI with innovative valve gear comprising the Audi valvelift system. This innovation varies the valve lift between two levels. To achieve this, sets of sliding cams are mounted directly on the intake camshafts. These feature two sets of adjacent cam contours for small and large valve lift. Which cam is used to open the intake valves depends on the power demand at any one time.

The effect is an appreciable increase in engine efficiency. The driver benefits from greater power and improved driveability, while enjoying a marked reduction in fuel consumption. At the wheel of an Audi A5 3.2 FSI there is a whole 195 kW (265 bhp) of power output available and a superb torque of 330 Nm in a broad rev band of 3,000 to 5,000 rpm, ensuring blistering acceleration at all times. Within 6.1 seconds the 3.2 FSI quattro with manual six-speed gearbox sprints from 0 to 100 km/h. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h. Despite this thrilling performance potential the car’s fuel consumption is only 8.7 liters per 100 kilometers (3.2 FSI multitronic).

The all-new high-tech four-cylinder unit in the Audi A5 also does full justice to Audi’s reputation for leading engine technology. The 1.8 TFSI, delivering 125 kW (170 bhp), will be available from autumn 2007. It combines turbocharger technology with petrol direct injection and provides a burst of acceleration and pulling power unrivalled in its class from virtually every rev band. Just as it did with its TDI engines, Audi has accomplished a pioneering feat of engineering with its turbocharged petrol units, taking spark-ignition engines to a new dimension in fuel consumption and driveability.

Thanks to a whole raft of technical innovations in the petrol engines, their fuel economy has been significantly improved, thus yielding a marked reduction in CO2 emissions.

TDI – Impressive performance combined with exemplary eco-friendliness

The V6 TDI units from Audi set the standards in their segment. Their copious torque and outstanding fuel economy accompanied by superb refinement mean that they score highly on all counts. In addition to all this, they offer eco-friendly performance that is hard to beat. The TDI engines fitted in the Audi A5, for instance, are equipped with a diesel particulate filter as standard.

The sporty top-of-the-range TDI in the new Audi coupé is the thoroughly revised 3.0-liter engine. It now delivers a power output of 176 kW (240 bhp) and its maximum torque is an immense 500 Nm. But that is not all: with its supreme 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h, the Audi A5 3.0 TDI quattro is one of the sportiest vehicles of its kind. Added to this, it also offers an average fuel consumption of just 7.2 liters per 100 km!

The second TDI engine in the Audi A5 range offers even better fuel economy. The 2.7-liter V6 engine delivers 140 kW (190 bhp) and is an ideal complement to the multitronic gearbox for the comfort-minded coupé driver. Nevertheless, its performance figures are more than impressive: it offers a top speed of

232 km/h with an average fuel economy of 6.7 liters per 100 km. On top of that, its acceleration time of just 7.6 seconds confirms the sporty credentials of this version of the Audi A5.

The Audi A5 2.7 TDI multitronic is equipped with front-wheel drive, while the 3-liter TDI with manual gearbox constantly supplies power to all four wheels. As in numerous other Audi models, the quattro permanent four-wheel drive in the Audi A5 enhances driving dynamics by distributing 40 percent of engine power to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear axle at its basic setting. The system adjusts the power distribution depending on the situation and road surface grip.

multitronic with eight forward gears and sport mode

In the standard specification, the Audi A5 powertrain features a six-speed manual gearbox with sporty ratios. This gearbox offers uniform short gear lever travel and smooth, easy gear changes.

The continuously variable multitronic automatic gearbox, which offers unparalleled power transmission comfort, is available in conjunction with the

3.2 FSI and the 2.7 TDI engines. At the same time its high efficiency and tall maximum transmission ratio make it very economical on fuel, since it operates in the most efficient range at all times. Whenever the driver prefers a more sporty driving style, the gearbox can be switched to a manual mode with eight set speeds.

The running gear

Precise instruments for agile handling

Even when stationary, the Audi A5 makes a dynamic impression: the wide track, large wheels and short overhangs not only characterise its muscular appearance, they also form part of the formula that produces its peerless active driving feel. The Audi A5 coupé defines the new standard in its class for precise steering response, outstanding directional stability and superb agility, while also offering first-class ride comfort.

The Audi engineers have achieved this with a completely new design of running gear: the front wheels are located by a five-link suspension arrangement with upper and lower wishbones. The wishbones are mounted on a subframe, which is firmly bolted to the body for high rigidity. Another completely reengineered component is the rack and pinion steering. It is located in front of the front axle close to the wheel centre line, and enhances the car’s very agile handling by its direct transmission of the steering forces.

Long wheelbase, short overhang

Overall, the front axle is located a long way forward for a longitudinal engine configuration with front- and four-wheel drive. This new vehicle architecture makes it possible to have a long wheelbase with a short front overhang, and to optimise the axle load distribution. These are all additional elements that enhance the supreme handling qualities of the new Audi A5. To accomplish this special design, the engineers used a trick adopted from the Audi A8: the front axle differential is located in front of the clutch.

A key element of the rear running gear is its trapezoidal-link rear suspension with completely new kinematics. It provides a high degree of ride comfort combined with excellent directional stability. At both the front and rear, the main components of the suspension are made of aluminum. The generous dimensions of the brakes are designed to match the car’s high performance ratings. The braking force can be precisely modulated and the kinematics of the new rear suspension significantly reduce the so-called braking dive effect.

The standard electromechanical parking brake, familiar from the A8 and A6, is activated via a button next to the gear lever. The A5 is also available with the option of Audi hold assist: this ensures that the car cannot accidentally roll back after stopping on a hill.

The body

Generous and superlatively solid

The Audi A5 is nothing if not generous to its driver and passengers. Its generosity begins with its luxurious spaciousness – not just for the front row. On the rear seats, too, the A5 is a full-size touring car. Likewise, with a luggage compartment volume of 455 liters, there is always space left over for a bit of extra shopping, even on a long tour. The loading width of one metre allows easy stowage of large items of luggage, and even well-filled golf bags will fit widthways into the Audi A5 boot. The rear seat folds in two separate sections, and can be released conveniently from the boot.

The extremely high bodyshell rigidity, typical of an Audi, provides the basis both for the car’s crisp handling and its agreeable feeling of solidness and comfort. In the development of the A5 the engineers have successfully combined supreme sporty performance and agility with outstanding vibrational comfort. Its lightweight body construction was achieved using the latest technologies, such as metal plates with varying wall thicknesses (tailored blanks), combined spot welded and bonded joints, and the use of aluminum, for example, in the front wings.

The smooth surfaces of the additional underbody panel enhance the Audi A5’s inherently good aerodynamics. One small but typical example of the extensive high-precision work carried out in the wind tunnel can be seen in the spoilers moulded into the sides of the tail lights.

The equipment

Luxury class high-tech features

Where equipment is concerned, the Audi A5 is characterised by a comprehensive standard specification. This includes 17-inch alloy wheels along with automatic air conditioning, the MMI information and operating system, an audio system with CD player and separate screen, and the automatically opening boot lid. The new comfort key and the electromechanical parking brake are also among the items included in the standard package.

The list of options offers even more luxury class high-tech: Audi adaptive light combines bi-xenon headlights with the dynamic cornering light system and the LED strip of daytime running lights. Keyless access for the doors and boot and keyless engine starting are all features of the advanced key system. The deluxe automatic air conditioning system with three temperature zones allows the passengers to adjust the climate for their individual comfort. The extra-large panoramic tilting roof lends the A5 an especially generous feeling of open space. The Audi parking system advanced features a rearview camera, helping to make tricky parking in cramped multi-storeys easily negotiable.

The infotainment system is a special highlight of the options range. Alongside the navigation system with DVD including MMI, DAB digital radio reception and DVB TV reception, this system also offers pure delight for the ears: the premium sound system for the Audi A5 is supplied by the Danish hi-fi specialist Bang & Olufsen. It comprises 14 speakers, 500 watts of music output, surround sound, active driving noise compensation and, above all, the expertise of a worldwide renowned specialist for high-end audio equipment, making every drive in the Audi A5 a delightful acoustic experience.

Customisation

A made-to-measure coupé

The decision to drive a coupé is always a very emotional one. That makes it all the more important for a coupé to reflect the personal wishes and express the ideas of it owner. If any coupé can fulfil special requests, it is the Audi A5: how about seat side sections in stone blue Valcona leather, accompanied by seat centre sections in star silver leather, with matching interior headlining also in star silver? To go with that, you can add aluminum hologram inlays or maybe rather laurel wood? The customer has the choice: in terms of design variety, the Audi A5 is luxury class in the full sense of the word, with two types of cloth, two leather varieties, the combination of leather and Alcantara, five different inlays and a wide range of interior color schemes. Above and beyond that, the Audi exclusive program from quattro GmbH can fulfil virtually every individual wish.

For those looking for an even stronger sporting intent in the A5, the Audi S line offers an extra-dynamic look. The S line exterior package comprises, for example, more distinctive bumpers at the front and rear. The S line sports package includes items such as sports seats, steering wheel and gear lever in perforated leather, black headlining, and special inlays. Even here, there is scope for individual choice between matt aluminum, piano finish black or Vavona wood assam grey. The 18-inch alloy wheels and exclusive paint finishes underscore the look of the S line sports package, while the sports suspension provides a distinct driving feel.

In a league of its own

The Audi S5

The Audi S5 is a unique competitor among high-performance coupés, thanks to its combination of V8 FSI technology and quattro permanent four-wheel drive. The eight-cylinder engine with its superb power delivery has worthy counterparts in the specially tuned sports suspension and high-performance brakes. Subtle, but clear design elements inside and out serve to distinguish this coupé as a high performance athlete in a league of its own. The Audi S5 goes on sale with the launch of the Audi A5 series.

Engine and running gear

Fascination no figures can express

The figures alone are fascinating enough, but they only hint at the impressive driving experience the S5 offers. The eight-cylinder engine has a rated power output of 260 kW (354 bhp). Its peak torque is 440 Nm, which it already delivers at 3,500 rpm. Within just 5.1 seconds the Audi S5 can sprint to 100 km/h. But no figures can adequately describe the supreme free-revving character, the spontaneous response, the continuous power build-up, or the thrilling sound of this eight-cylinder engine. The V8 naturally derives its enormous power potential from the innovative FSI direct injection technology with high compression and optimum fuel mixture formation.

The six-speed manual gearbox with its very precise guiding of the gear lever and short throw action makes every gear change a pleasure. The quattro permanent four-wheel drive of course provides perfect traction with variable torque distribution from its basic setting of 40 percent to the front and 60 percent to the rear axle. Within a fraction of a second, the dynamic drivetrain system adapts to the current driving conditions and constantly delivers the ideal distribution of drive torque.

The Audi S5’s sports suspension is tuned to enhance the coupé’s performance with particularly dynamic handling. The special high-performance brakes, recognisable by their black painted brake calipers, always ensure precise deceleration. And finally, the ESP electronic stabilisation program can be deactivated in two stages whenever the driver wishes to exploit the potential of the Audi S5 to the full on a suitable stretch of road.

Design and interiors

Sporty aesthetics with clear functionality

While the design of the Audi A5 forms a balanced synthesis of sportiness and elegance, the Audi S5 displays the more vigorous features of a powerfully built athlete: the radiator grille possesses the specific look of an Audi S model – painted in platinum grey and fitted with vertical chrome inlays. The front and rear bumpers have a more pronounced outline and the air inlet grilles are more striking. The aluminum-look exterior mirror housings make an overtly sporty impression, as do the color-keyed door sill trim and the dual-branch exhaust system with four oval tailpipes. Nevertheless, the model’s sporty attributes always have a functional aspect: for instance, the more pronounced spoiler in the boot lid yields additional aerodynamic downforce.

However, true strength comes from within and the interior design of the

Audi A5 thoroughly underscores its athletic character. The sports seats, sports steering wheel, instruments with grey dials and aluminum door sill plates provide a dynamic and refined atmosphere. The program does, of course, provide ample scope to fulfil individual interior design wishes: the inlays are one example – here the choice is between carbon, aluminum, stainless steel or wood. After all, the Audi S5 should perfectly match its owner’s individual ideas and expectations.

Alongside the coupé’s 18-inch wheels with the new S design and 245/40 R 18 tires, the standard equipment specification for the S5 features items such as xenon plus headlights with impressive daytime running lights in the form of an LED light strip, or sports seats with electronic adjustment.

*NOTE: TDI models will not be offered in the U.S.

Posted by Frank at 05:41 PM

Why There's No GM Comment About Chrysler

By Steve Harris
Vice President, GM Global Communications

I know from your comments that a lot of you would like to hear our side of what's going on behind all the media reports suggesting there could be a link-up of GM and the Chrysler Division of DCX.

The announcement by Daimler-Chrysler on February 14 that "all options are on the table" regarding the future of the Chrysler Division certainly set off a firestorm of stories, studies and speculation by media, analysts and bloggers.

Commenting on hot news events and speculating about the future is the lifeblood of most blogs. In this case, GM has good reasons for declining to comment or speculate on any discussions we might be having with DCX about Chrysler.

The reason is simple: GM and other car makers frequently discuss issues of mutual interest. In most cases, these discussions don't lead anywhere. So as a matter of policy, the company doesn't confirm or comment publicly on these types of discussions unless and until it's determined that disclosure is appropriate.

I love a good online discussion as much as anyone. But, as a spokesman for GM, I must do what is best for the company. And in this case, it means continuing to decline comment on this issue.

Posted by Frank at 05:37 PM

Volkswagen not interested in Chrysler

Volkswagen, Europe’s biggest carmaker, has no interest in acquiring DaimlerChrysler’s loss-making U.S. arm Chrysler or expanding cooperation accords, a VW spokeswoman said on Friday.

Posted by Frank at 05:34 PM

Pennsylvania Governor Rendell to Activate State Emergency Operations

In Anticipation of Potential Winter Storm

State Emergency Operations Center Will Activate Tonight at 10 p.m.

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced that the State Emergency Operations Center in Harrisburg will be activated at 10 p.m. tonight in anticipation of a second winter storm forecast to hit the Commonwealth in less than two weeks.

"The State Emergency Operations Center will be prepared for operations, partially manned and will stand by for a full Level 4 activation if needed," Governor Rendell said. "My public safety team is ready to respond to any emergency incidents that should arise."

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) is continuing its communication with the National Weather Service and counties to assess local and regional weather conditions. Other state department and agency personnel including PennDOT, State Police, the department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Health and the Public Utility Commission will be staffed in the State Emergency Operations Center.

"With snow, sleet and freezing rain in the forecast for many Pennsylvania counties, I am calling on motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads and delay travel if at all possible," Governor Rendell said.

Motorists within Pennsylvania may call PennDOT's 24-hour, toll-free road condition hotline at 1-888-783-6783 for interstate conditions. Out-of-state motorists can call 717-783-5186. For assistance in the event of an emergency, call 911.

For additional emergency preparedness and winter safety information as well as current weather advisories please visit the PA Emergency Management Agency Web site at www.pema.state.pa.us.

The Rendell administration is committed to creating a first-rate public education system, protecting our most vulnerable citizens and continuing economic investment to support our communities and businesses. To find out more about Governor Rendell's initiatives and to sign up for his weekly newsletter, visit his Web site at: www.governor.state.pa.us.

Source: Pennsylvania Office of the Governor

Posted by Frank at 05:33 PM

Save Chrysler Dot Com

Scott Campbell of Harper Woods has known Chrysler his whole life and doesn't want to see the company that he, his father and grandfather worked for sold again -- especially to General Motors.

"I think General Motors will just destroy the company," he said. "There are a lot of people who don't want to see Chrysler hacked up."

Campbell is trying to start a grassroots effort to prevent DaimlerChrysler AG from selling the Auburn Hills-based unit.

Campbell hopes to unite enough shareholders against a sale to GM and rally enough support to pressure government regulators and lawmakers into opposing the idea. Using MySpace.com, he has created a Web site, www.savechrysler.com.

Posted by Frank at 05:31 PM

Chrysler bidding process to start next week

The bidding process for DaimlerChrysler AG's ailing US unit Chrysler will start as soon as next week, The Detroit News said in a report published on its website yesterday.

The report, quoting people familiar with the matter, said private investors and automakers are expected to receive confidential data on the US unit by investment bank JP Morgan Chase & Co as a first step in the process.

The report said that GM and several foreign car companies will likely get the prospectus, which breaks down Chrysler's assets, liabilities and future product plans as well as sales projections.

Posted by Frank at 05:30 PM

Saving Ford is Fields' job 1

After more than 16 months of toiling to turn around Ford Motor Co.'s Americas division, Mark Fields is putting his long-guarded personal and professional cards on the table for all to judge: Does he have what it takes to save Ford?

Fields, 46, president of the Americas, seemed destined to be Ford's next chief executive officer.

But since Fields began leading the company's biggest and most crucial division, the automaker has repeatedly missed its targets, leading to criticism of Fields and speculation he might be fired by CEO Alan Mulally.

Fields' rising star, it seems, is at risk along with Ford's future.

In interviews with the Free Press in recent months, Fields sought to soften his image, get the troops on his side and show he can succeed in the critical role that will define his career.

"I wanted to be pretty open and say there were a couple of things we didn't meet," Fields said in an hour-long interview at his Dearborn office this month. "I'm human. ... I would have liked to have gone faster."

While Fields has amassed his fair share of doubters, some experts say he is more prepared than ever to fix Ford.

"The future of the Ford Motor Co. is carried on his shoulders," said David Cole, president of the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor. Cole said the tribulations of the past year have made Fields a humbler leader, one who now appreciates the true gravity of his task.

Posted by Frank at 05:28 PM

Why Toyota Is Afraid Of Being Number One

It's overtaking Detroit—with trepidation. Now, the carmaker is relying on ever-savvier PR to avoid the U.S. backlash it dreads

Ask consumers why Toyota may soon be the largest automaker in the world, and they will point to the Camry. Or the Prius. Or the rav4. (It's the cars, stupid.) Ask manufacturing geeks, and they'll tell you it's about just-in-time production and a maniacal focus on constant improvement. (It's the engineering, dummy.)

But there's another drama behind the carmaker's tire-squealing momentum. It's a story that might be called: How Toyota is winning the hearts and minds of America.

With a deft combination of marketing, public relations, and lobbying, Toyota has done a remarkable job over the past 20 years of selling itself as an American company. That drives the Big Three to distraction. Here's Chrysler communications chief Jason Vines: "The thing I resent is Toyota wrapping themselves in the American flag," he says. "We still employ more people and contribute more to the economy."

Posted by Frank at 03:09 PM

February 24, 2007

Audi Canada debuts 2008 TT Roadster at the Interior Design Show

AJAX, ON -- The all new 2008 Audi TT Roadster was debuted last evening at the 2007 Interior Design Show, a proper location for the new Roadsters entrance. On hand to introduce the vehicle was Audi Canada Executive Vice President Diego Ramos. "With design being the principle aspect of the show, a more suitable location could not have been chosen to premier an automobile that Audi hopes will become as iconic as its predecessor," said Ramos.

Mr. Ramos announced that the Roadster will have a starting price of only $53,600.

This event marked the first time a vehicle has had its Canadian premier at the IDS.

Audi will offer a choice of two engines for its new TT Roadster. The 3.2-litre V6 power unit generates 250 hp and is coupled to the quattro drive system as standard. The 2.0 TFSI engine, which blends turbocharging with fuel direct injection technology, delivers 200 hp to the front wheels.

The face of the new Audi TT Roadster has an expressive feel. Wing-shaped elements are embedded into the slanted, sharply tapered headlights to emphasize the three-dimensional depth of the lamp units. At the rear of the car, it is the large tailpipes and the wide diffuser which stand out. The tube-shaped reflectors seem to hover inside the tail light units.

Posted by Frank at 12:11 PM

Chrysler CEO Assures Dealers in Conference Call

Chrysler Group President and Chief Executive Officer Tom LaSorda reassured dealers in a conference call on Thursday afternoon that, despite the current uncertainties, the company is making major investments to strengthen its future.

Here’s some of the highlights from the conference call:

"We have a strong future and we are determined to bring the company to profitability as soon as possible," Tom told dealers in the call.

As outlined during the Annual Press Conference on Feb. 14, the Chrysler Group plans to spend $3 billion in new engines, transmissions and axles to build more fuel efficient vehicles. Chrysler Group’s product offensive will continue, with more than 20 all-new vehicles and 13 refreshed models arriving through 2009.

“When you look at our plans for new products and new powertrains, I simply ask this: Do these sound like the actions of a company uncertain about its future?" Tom asked. "Obviously not.”

The Chrysler Group has been around for 80 years and the company has a plan, backed by DaimlerChrysler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche and the Board of Management, to return to profitability by 2008, Tom said.

"My job is to deliver this company back to profitability and that is 100 percent of my focus," Tom said. "And that's where the focus will stay."

Chrysler Group continues to invest in the future, and Tom asked dealers to continue to invest in their franchise.

Steven Landry, Vice President of Sales and Field Operations, said during the call that U.S. sales were down slightly in February, but have regained some momentum recently. Canadian vehicle sales appear slightly stronger, he said.

Tom wished dealers luck in their business, and thanked them for listening and working with the Chrysler Group.

Posted by Frank at 12:09 PM

Nissan North America Executive Change

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Nissan today announced a change to its senior leadership team in North America. Jim Morton, Vice Chairman for Nissan North America, has decided to retire, effective April 1, 2007. He will continue to serve the company as Senior Advisor for Government Affairs on a contract basis. Scott Becker, Vice President of Legal for Nissan North America, will take over Morton's responsibilities for government affairs. The Vice Chairman's position will be vacated.

Immediately prior to being named vice chairman on July 1, 2006, Morton was senior vice president, administration and finance for NNA. In this function, he oversaw all finance, legal, human resources, business strategy, corporate communications, captive finance, security, corporate aviation and audit for Nissan's North American operations.

He is a member of the NNA Board of Directors; Management Committee Americas (MC-A), the key decision making body for Nissan in North, Central and South America; and the U.S. Management Committee (MC-US).

He is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the National Urban League, Chairman of the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM), a member of the Advisory Committee for the Trent Lott Leadership Institute at the University of Mississippi and the Advisory Committee for the Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina. He will keep an active role with the National Urban League and the two advisory committees.

"I appreciate Jim's hard work, commitment and significant contributions to Nissan's organization during his years of service, and we're looking forward to his continued contributions in his new role," said Carlos Ghosn, President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. "I know that everyone at Nissan wishes him and his family the best in the future."

Morton joined Nissan in May 2000. Prior to that, he held a variety of positions with Michelin North America, Inc., which he joined in 1976. From 1996 until his departure, he held the position of vice president, public relations and government affairs. Before that, he served as executive director of external relations and held other positions in the company's public relations, governmental affairs and legal operations.

While at Michelin, Morton's external activities included serving as vice chairman, South Carolina Ports Authority; chairman of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and as a member of the Board of Directors of the Rubber Manufacturers Association.

Prior to joining Michelin, Morton worked for Arthur Andersen & Company and General Dynamics Corporation in various tax accounting and legal positions.

Morton holds an undergraduate degree in economics from Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri, and was awarded his juris doctorate at the University of Missouri - Columbia. He received an Alumni Achievement Award from Westminster College in 2003.

Source: Nissan North America, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 12:07 PM

Chrysler CEO LaSorda Emails Employees About Compnay's Struggles

Chrysler Group workers arriving for work found an email in their inbox from President and Chief Executive Officer Tom LaSorda.

Here’s Tom's email in its entirety:

Dear Colleagues,
I know you have many questions as a result of the DaimlerChrysler Annual Press Conference last week and the resulting rumors about the future of the Chrysler Group. I’m sending this letter because I want to provide you the information that I can, and share with you my personal thoughts.

Journalists and analysts have been busy conjecturing over what will happen. To a certain extent, that is the nature of their business and we need to keep it in perspective. I know that you’ve been reading and discussing these stories, but I want you to keep in mind that Dieter Zetsche and the Board of Management strongly endorsed the Chrysler Group’s new Recovery and Transformation Plan. Dieter added that the company will look into “further strategic options with partners beyond that business cooperation” that I outlined in the Recovery and Transformation Plan, which set off the frenzy of rumors.

We simply cannot respond to these reports. The Board of Management has a duty to consider all options; but while this process is ongoing, the Board – including myself – can’t comment on developments because of strict legal requirements.

It may take weeks or months before official comments can be made on some issues. However, I can tell you that further information on the voluntary separation and early retirement programs for employees will be communicated in the next few days.

Meanwhile, our job is very clear. Our mission is to produce great cars and trucks, to take care of our customers and to restore profitability. Whatever fork in the road we may take, we first have to make sure we’re on the road – and the Recovery and Transformation Plan is that road. The plan is designed to make us profitable by 2008 and put us on solid footing to stay there. This is a sound plan that includes a substantial investment in our long-term competitiveness, and we must focus our attention on executing it.

The Chrysler Group has been around for more than 80 years and has been through difficult times before. We went through a restructuring in 2001, but our situation today is much different. For one thing, we’re leaner. Another important difference is that we have a full product pipeline with at least 20 new and 13 refreshed vehicles on their way from 2007 to 2009.

We also have achieved areas of operational excellence that are the benchmark of the world. Capacity for the fuel-efficient, four-cylinder World Engine in Dundee, Michigan, will increase to 840,000 units a year over the next few years, compared to the 260,000 we built last year. Our improvements in manufacturing productivity lead the industry over the past four years. We’ve also made great strides in product quality – for example, the Chrysler Town & Country minivan led its segment in the 2006 Initial Quality Survey from J.D. Power, beating Toyota and Honda.

Importantly, we are continuing to invest in our future. In addition to the barrage of new products, we will invest $3 billion in new powertrains, including a new family of world-class V-6 engines and a new dual-clutch transmission that we are developing with Getrag.

To sum up, we are a much leaner and stronger organization than before, and we are continuing to make the necessary investments to be competitive into the future. We are a good company with great talent and a clearly defined plan of action. The best way to secure a successful future for the Chrysler Group is to focus on what we can control – that is the Recovery and Transformation Plan. Many of you may be familiar with the adage about accepting what you cannot change and taking charge of what you can control. We can learn a lot from this message.

We have an obligation to each other, to our shareholders, to our dealers and to our customers to make this plan successful. Your support and best effort have never been more important, and I thank you for your continued dedication to the job at hand. In the meantime, you have my promise that we will continue to communicate as openly and directly with you as possible.

Sincerely,

Tom

Posted by Frank at 12:04 PM

Mazda and Windward School Team Up to Support Victims of Genocide in the Sudan

Battle of the Bands Contest Brings Together High School Students and Entertainment Industry Executives to Raise Money for Victims of Genocide in the Sudan

LOS ANGELES -- For a third consecutive year, Windward School's Battle of the Bands contest, sponsored by Mazda North American Operations (MNAO), will take place on Saturday, Feb. 24 at 7:15 p.m. at the El Rey Theater in Los Angeles. Bands featuring students from local high schools around West Los Angeles will have the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of top entertainment industry executives while at the same time raising money to aid victims of Sudanese genocide.

Windward is an independent school located in West L.A. comprised of students ranging from grades 7-12. Following the aftermath of the "Rebel Wars" in Darfur, Windward students wanted to help victims of genocide and decided to organize a benefit concert to raise money.

The students selected Direct Change (http://www.directchange.org/sudan/), a charitable organization dedicated to building a hospital for treating the starved and ill victims in Sudan, to be the recipient of all proceeds generated from this year's concert. The founder of Direct Change and star of the newly released documentary "God Grew Tired of Us," John Dau, will also be at the concert. Last year's Battle of the Bands benefited the "LEAF in Schools and Streets" program that granted funds for instruments for students in New Orleans.

By partnering with Mazda, Windward students are confident that they will be able to truly impact the lives of Sudanese women, men and children suffering from the acts of genocide.

"Mazda is proud to sponsor such an incredible event," said Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations. "These students exemplify Mazda's 'fast, fun and cool' mentality in their initiative and creativity that they have displayed in organizing this concert, and we are honored to aid them in their mission."

Along with serving as a corporate sponsor, Mazda will showcase a MAZDASPEED3 accessory vehicle in front of the El Rey Theater on Wilshire Boulevard. The MAZDASPEED3 is one of the fastest front-wheel drive cars in the world. Concert-goers will be able to interact with and view both the interior and exterior of the vehicle.

"We're so grateful to Mazda for their generous support and making it possible for us to hold the Battle of the Bands event for the third year in a row," said Ann-Marie Hobbs, Middle School Dean of Students and Student Activities Coordinator at Windward. "This concert is an amazing example of students, not only from Windward, but from the West L.A. area, working together to help out in a global sense."

This student-organized benefit concert will highlight West L.A. native bands from more than five local schools, including Windward, Crossroads, Wildwood, Harvard-Westlake and Buckley. The five bands competing -- L'Overture, Harry Whittington, The Blame, Madison Grey, and The Irregars -- will musically battle it out in front of a panel of celebrity judges. This panel will include some of the entertainment industry's biggest names. The winner of the contest will receive tickets to Coachella Valley Music Festival and the opportunity to meet one-on-one with music executive, Russ Reiger.

Each band has a loyal fanbase, and the event will draw an audience of an expected 500 plus teenagers from the West L.A. area and industry professionals. Tickets will be 15 dollars at the door, and all ticket sale proceeds will go towards aiding victims of Sudanese genocide. Aside from a night of great music, the event is sure to bring out of some of the most fashionable, fresh and innovative teens and prove to be a resonating night of fun and charity.

Windward School is a not-for-profit, co-educational, college-preparatory day school founded in 1971 through the determined efforts of Shirley Windward, a well-known educator and writer. More information can be found at www.windwardschool.org.

Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.

John Dau is a survivor of a 14 year journey from his home village in Duk County, Sudan in 1987 to his arrival in Syracuse, New York in 2001. He fled government troops seeking to convert or kill all males in his region of southern Sudan to Ethiopia, back to Sudan and then to a refugee camp in Kenya in 1994. During this journey of more than 1,000 miles and many years in refugee camps, he was one of the older boys who had to lead thousands of younger children in surviving violence and starvation. Brought to Syracuse, New York along with 140 other "Lost Boys of Sudan" in 2001, John pursued the American Dream. He brought his sister and mother from Sudan as well as his fiance whom he hopes to marry soon. While working 60 hours a week as a security guard, he completed his Associates Degree at Onondaga Community College and is pursuing a degree at Syracuse University in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. His life in the United States has been a remarkable story of cultural adaptation, building a sound family life and most of all as a human rights activist for the Lost Boys of Sudan in the City of Syracuse and the people of southern Sudan.

The organization that John has started is Direct Change which has solicited funds to build and operate Duk Lost Boys Clinic at Duk Payuel in Southern Sudan. Direct Change will build a clinic that will encourage and assist the sick, as they will no longer have to walk for 75 miles in search of health services. The organization will help build the clinic that will eventually help the treatment of simple disease such as guinea-worm, malaria, chicken pox, diarrhea, malnourishment, bilharzias, h-worm, kalazar and better provision for handling maternity services; immunization of other diseases affecting human beings. John has been the key player in raising more than $220,000 for the clinic even as he continues to work 60 hours a week to provide for his family and pay his bills.

Source: Mazda North American Operations

Posted by Frank at 12:01 PM

NBC Sports to Broadcast Off Road Racing in 2007

NEWPORT BEACH -- NBC Sports and Championship Off Road Racing(TM) (CORR) have partnered to add CORR to NBC's diverse array of sports programming.

"We see this venture into network television as a huge step forward and a great opportunity to increase viewership and sponsorship value," said Jim Baldwin, owner of Championship Off Road Racing. "We have big plans for the future of Championship Off Road Racing by increasing national reach," he continued. "This exciting, new partnership with NBC Sports keeps our business plan right on track."

"We're looking forward to partnering with CORR to bring viewers these exciting broadcasts," said Jon Miller, Executive Vice President, NBC Sports.

NBC will broadcast CORR races nationally on the following days: April 28, May 27, July 29, Sept. 23, Oct. 14, Oct. 28, Dec 8.

NBC's CORR broadcasts will use new technology to provide viewers with a thrilling, enhanced experience. The production will give viewers up-close, wheel to wheel coverage while tracking the competing trucks and displaying speed, acceleration, time behind the leader, RPM and all the information they need to follow the race.

NBC Universal Sports & Olympics presents viewers with a lineup of prestigious sports properties. NBC is the exclusive home of NBC Sunday Night Football, and the Olympics through 2012. NBC Sports also possesses the premier broadcast packages in golf, tennis and Thoroughbred racing, including the U.S. Open, The Players Championship, Wimbledon, US Open of tennis and the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes.

Developed in 1983 Championship Off Road Racing(TM) brings high action four wheel motorsports including 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive trucks on closed course off road tracks. The 2007 CORR season includes seven events in Los Angeles and San Diego, CA; Dallas, TX and Las Vegas, NV.

Source: NBC Sports; Championship Off Road Racing

Posted by Frank at 11:58 AM

Chrysler Group Executives Earn Diversity Awards

-- Chrysler Group Vice President Byron Green named to "Top 100 Blacks in Technology"

-- Plant Manager Richard Owusu receives "Professional Achievement in Industry Award"

-- Three other Chrysler Group employees receive additional recognition

BALTIMORE -- Two Chrysler Executives were given special honors at the 21st Annual Black Engineer of the Year Awards ceremonies, held Saturday, Feb. 17, at the Baltimore Convention Center.

Byron Green, Chrysler Group Vice President Truck and Activity Vehicle Assembly, was named one of the Top 100 Blacks in Technology, while Richard Owusu, Chrysler Group Plant Manager, Jefferson North Assembly, was presented with the 2007 Professional Achievement in Industry Award.

The prestigious honor is granted to individuals who exhibit significant contributions to the Black Engineer of the Year organization. This is the tenth consecutive year that a Chrysler Group employee has been recognized.

"The Chrysler Group is proud of Byron and Richard's achievements, contributions and outstanding leadership," said Frank Ewasyshyn, Executive Vice President Manufacturing. "The Black Engineer of the Year awards are a prestigious honor that encourages African American executives to share their significant contributions with others. At the Chrysler Group, an inclusive workforce is what drives smart solutions and innovative products needed to win in a highly competitive global marketplace."

In a separate ceremony, several other Chrysler Group employees received honors for their contributions in the engineering field, including Tonya Tompkins, Industrial Engineer - Manufacturing Action Process; Carolann Grant, New Programs I.E. & Ergonomics Manager - Jeep(R) /Trucks Programs; and Deronne Carson, Area Manager St. Louis South Assembly Plant.

The Black Engineer of the Year Award Conference is the nation's largest career and professional development conference for African-American executives, professionals and college and high school students. More than 10,000 African-American professionals participate in the three-day event, which includes a career fair, workshops and a black-tie awards ceremony.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 11:57 AM

Should New EPA Ratings Dim Appeal of Hybrids?

Alternative-Fuel Vehicles not just about fuel economy

CAMPBELL, Calif. -- IntelliChoice.com, the online source for automotive ownership cost and value analysis, today said the Environmental Protection Agency's new gas mileage ratings should not be a primary concern for auto buyers considering hybrids and alternative fuel vehicles.

"The EPA's new gas mileage ratings update a 24-year-old model for measuring fuel economy and have been anticipated for some time," said James Bell, publisher of IntelliChoice.com. "We strongly support the new ratings, which will help consumers by estimating miles-per-gallon based on real-world driving conditions. The bottom line is that hybrids still provide the highest fuel economy when measured against respective vehicles in their class. According to the EPA, on average, there will be a 10 percent decrease on most vehicles."

Bell emphasized that a vehicle's overall value should be taken into account when considering a purchase and fuel economy is just one factor. IntelliChoice.com, which offers value rankings for all makes and models, calculates vehicle value based on repair, maintenance, resale value, insurance costs and government fees, in addition to fuel costs.

IntelliChoice.com's recently announced Best Overall Value of the Year awards for model-year 2007 recognized several hybrid vehicles for their overall value, including the Toyota Prius, which was ranked as the best car value under $23,000, and the Ford Escape Hybrid, which was ranked as the best SUV under $28,000.

"We have been saying for some time that fuel economy is just one of the many appealing factors for hybrids," said Bell. "Our value rankings take into account their many other strengths, such as resale value and high levels of quality."

Posted by Frank at 11:54 AM

Avis and Budget Roll Out GPS System in Canada

Will Become the First Rental Car Company to Offer GPS Navigation With Real-Time Traffic Alerts and Bluetooth Capability

PARSIPPANY, N.J. -- Avis Budget Group, Inc. today announced that Avis and Budget customers can now rent Where2, the fully portable Global Positioning System (GPS) built by Garmin, a leader in GPS navigation, at rental locations throughout Canada.

Beginning today, Where2 will be available at Avis airport rental locations in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, St. Johns, and Halifax. Budget will feature Where2 units at airport rental locations in Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City and Halifax. With the introduction of Where2 into Canada, Avis Budget Group now leads the industry in providing GPS navigation with units available for rent at 386 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Beginning in the second quarter of 2007, Where2 will be the only GPS available for rent in Canada to feature real-time traffic updates of Canadian roadways. The system not only notifies drivers of traffic delays on their route, but also offers alternative directions to help navigate around the traffic.

Based on Garmin's popular new StreetPilot c550 device, Where2 offers Avis and Budget customers an array of navigation features -- a simple user interface, Bluetooth hands-free calling capability, directions spoken in English, French, and a variety of other languages, 3-dimensional maps, a high-bright display and a high-sensitivity GPS receiver.

"We are committed to enhancing the productivity of business travelers, and making leisure travel more convenient," said William Boxberger, vice president and general manager of Avis Budget Group, Canada. "In addition, as drivers use the new service they will enjoy the added safety benefit that comes from being able to keep their eyes on the road at all times since the directions are 'spoken' to the driver. We're very excited to introduce Where2 to Avis and Budget customers in Canada."

Motorists who have never tried using GPS navigation will quickly master the device's intuitive menus. Where2 gives drivers turn-by-turn voice-prompted directions to virtually any destination in Canada, the U.S. or Puerto Rico, all on a bright and easy-to-read touch screen display. Pre-loaded road maps include addresses and nearly six million points of interest, including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs and tourist attractions. Where2 has a text-to-speech feature available in 20 text languages with 36 voice options that speaks the name of the next turn ("turn right on Main Street") instead of simply calling out distances ("turn right in 500 feet") -- particularly useful on busy and unfamiliar roadways.

Where2 is also programmed with all Avis and Budget locations as well as Avis and Budget reservation and roadside assistance contact information, airline contact information for 250 carriers worldwide, and a unique guide to nearby AM/FM radio stations.

Pricing is $9.95 per day or $49.75 per week. Avis customers can reserve Where2 via the company's website at www.avis.ca, by calling 1-800-879-2847 or contacting a local travel professional. Budget customers can reserve the system at www.budget.com, by calling 1-800-527-0700 or contacting a local travel professional.

Source: Avis Budget Group, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 11:53 AM

February 23, 2007

Honda & BMW Dominate Most Requested Lease Vehicles

CINCINNATI -- Automobile Consumer Services, Inc., the leader in online direct-to-consumer auto leasing, released a list of the top 10 most requested vehicles from its popular auto leasing website www.LeaseCompare.com. Information was collected during the second half of 2006 from more than one million lease quote requests.

Japanese models continue to dominate the new cars listings and German models head up the used car rankings. “Volume brands, like Honda and Toyota, are becoming more popular for leasing,” says Tarry Shebesta, President of ACS and a certified lease consultant. ”While high-end used European models, like BMW and Mercedes, make excellent used car leases because of their slower depreciation and perceived long term reliability.”

The Top 10 Most Requested Models:

New Car Rankings

2nd Half 2006
---------
1 Chevrolet Corvette
2 Toyota Camry
3 Audi A4
4 Honda Accord
5 Honda Civic
6 Infiniti G35
7 BMW 325
8 Honda Odyssey
9 Honda Pilot
10 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

Used Car Rankings

2nd Half 2006
---------
1 Porsche 911
2 BMW M3
3 Chevrolet Corvette
4 BMW 325
5 Audi A4
6 BMW 745
7 Mercedes SL500
8 Infiniti G35
9 BMW 330
10 Mercedes E55

A complete list of how every vehicle ranks can be found at http://www.LeaseCompare.com. LeaseCompare.com is the alternative to dealer leasing and, as the name suggests, provides an interactive tool to instantly evaluate leasing options from a number of sources. Customers can lock in the lease quote they like and apply for credit online. ACS facilitates leases that customers choose from LeaseCompare.com.

Posted by Frank at 01:47 PM

Porsche drivers training at Cyprus

Preparations for the 2007 motorsport season are in full swing. In addition to their personal sports programme the Porsche works drivers met up for an intensive ten-day fitness training on Cyprus.

Under the direction of sports physician Prof. Dr. Frank Mayer from the University of Potsdam, factory drivers Timo Bernhard (26), Sascha Maassen (37), Romain Dumas (29), Ryan Briscoe (25), Emmanuel Collard (35), Patrick Long (25), Joerg Bergmeister (31), Marc Lieb (26) and Richard Lietz (23) focus on strength and endurance in preparation for races in international sportscar and GT racing series.

Also taking part in the Porsche Fitness Camp were UPS-Porsche juniors Lance David Arnold (20) and Martin Ragginger (18).

Aside from exercises to increase strength and endurance, also on the comprehensive training schedule were workouts to enhance coordination, speed and flexibility. The pilots train between five and seven hours daily.
“I feel that the muscles in my torso have improved considerably and this is particularly important for a race driver,” reports Timo Bernhard, who shares the cockpit of an almost 500 hp Porsche RS Sypder with Romain Dumas for the Penske Motorsports team in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).

Sascha Maassen, the reigning ALMS champion in the P2 class, made the most of this chance to get to know his new team mate Ryan Briscoe whilst also further improving his fitness. “The ten days of training on Cyprus were a great chance for us to get used to each other. In long-distance racing it's crucial for race drivers who are usually lone-rangers to think as a team.”
said Maassen. “The camp has really helped the whole driver squad to weld together. Not once did we experience cabin fever. The new drivers also fitted in really well,” added Timo Bernhard, who has competed for Porsche since 1999.

“All drivers have trained excellently over the winter and have followed my workout programme diligently. For this reason it was possible to further increase the pilots' performance during our intensive ten-day camp,”
praises Prof. Dr. Mayer. According to the sports physician, the pilots now head into the season well prepared.

For their race events the works drivers will also be under the care of a medical team, to which at least one doctor belongs. Porsche race physician Dr. Georg Huber has accompanied the sportsmen since 1973. His colleague, Dr. Jürgen Lindemann, has also spent a good two decades travelling to race tracks all over the world. At particularly long events like the Sebring 12 hour race, the Le Mans 24 Hours or the Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta, the squad also has Prof. Mayer and his team of physiotherapists at hand.

Posted by Frank at 01:43 PM

Bryant Park Sets the Stage for Teams Working to Solve Super-Size "Snowdoku" Puzzle Made of Snow

The Chrysler brand is heating up the sudoku craze in the Big Apple by transforming the traditionally solitary game of sudoku into a high-energy, must-see outdoor sporting event called “Chrysler Aspen Snowdoku™ Challenge.”

Teams of up to eight sudoku puzzle players will be invited to New York City on Tuesday, Feb. 27, to go head-to-head to solve a giant, larger-than-life “Snowdoku™” puzzle made out of 36,000 pounds of snow and ice. The best-in-class team that solves the puzzle in the quickest amount of time will win a trip to Aspen, Colo., and will ride in style during their stay in an all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen, the brand’s first sport utility vehicle.

Since making its U.S. newspaper debut in New York City in 2005, sudoku has become a national phenomenon. In just two years, sudoku books have knocked crossword puzzle books off best-seller lists, and some airlines have started encouraging passengers to play sudoku to relieve stress during takeoff and landing. Around the world, sudoku has become so popular that it is responsible for a 700 percent increase in pencil sales in England. (Source: The Independent of London.)

To illustrate the magnitude of sudoku’s popularity and celebrate the introduction of the Chrysler Aspen — the brand’s first Sport Utility Vehicle – Chrysler is introducing “Snowdoku™” a super-size sudoku puzzle built out of snow, in the city where sudoku first appeared.

When:
Tuesday, February 27, 2007

* 7:30 a.m. (ET) – Contestant registration
* 8 a.m. (ET) – “Chrysler Aspen Snowdoku™ Challenge” Round One begins at Bryant Park
o A subsequent round is scheduled to begin every 30 minutes, or less, depending on the length of time it takes the current team to solve the puzzle
* 12:30 p.m.(ET) – Expected time of completion and winner announcement

Where:
Bryant Park, Fountain Terrace – New York City (Manhattan)
Bryant Park is situated behind the New York Public Library in midtown Manhattan, between 40th & 42nd Streets and Fifth & Sixth Avenues. Please use the Sixth Avenue entrance.

Posted by Frank at 01:41 PM

Happy Ending: GM Replaces 'Suicide' Ad

DETROIT -- The new “Robot” spot for General Motors is completed, eliminating the suicide scene that drew protests from mental health and suicide prevention groups.

The revised ad, which can be seen here via Deutsch, Los Angeles, originally portrayed a robot on the assembly line who was fired for dropping a bolt. The anguished robot toiled through a series of low-end jobs, including holding a sign hawking condo units before pondering a bridge jump. As he jumps he awakes from what was a bad dream.

The amended 30-second spot, which premieres this Sunday during the Academy Awards, removes the jump and substitutes as a bad dream a shot of a car being compacted in a scrap yard, and shows the robot in additional menial jobs, including work as a shelf-stocker and holding the security gate in a parking ramp.

Posted by Frank at 01:36 PM

Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard Pullman

Mercedes-Benz builds new Pullman State Limousine

Stuttgart -- Mercedes-Benz engineers are currently developing a new, prestigious luxury limousine with integrated highest protection for governments, businesses, monarchs and heads of state. The armoured Pullman Limousine is based on the long version of the S 600 with a substantially extended wheelbase length.

The Mercedes-Benz State Limousine therefore provides a level of roominess worthy of its high-ranking occupants, not to mention outstanding comfort and a fully equipped mobile office. The S 600 Guard Pullman sees the world's oldest car manufacturer continuing its long tradition of building large state carriages with factory-integrated special-protection features.

Tradition and innovation are part of Mercedes-Benz' corporate culture. Nowhere is this more evident than in the construction of large, armoured, prestigious limousines. The Stuttgart-based manufacturer is the only carmaker that develops and builds impressive Pullman limousines with special protection, primarily for the official engagements of heads of state and monarchs. And it has been doing so for some eight decades without interruption.

Originally, Pullman cars were railroad sleeping cars with luxurious appointments, produced by the American Pullman Palace Car Company; however, it was not long before the name "Pullman" also came to describe Mercedes-Benz cars with an extra-long wheelbase and an extremely large passenger compartment in the rear. Separated from the front compartment by a partition, the rear compartment housed four individual face-to-face seats, allowing four passengers to sit opposite each other in truly grand style.

The very first Mercedes-Benz car to be factory-fitted with special protection, in 1928, was a long Pullman version of the W 08/460 Nürburg model. This was followed first by the 770 K, which provided protection befitting the status of the Japanese Emperor Hirohito among others, and then by further Pullman Limousines. Eventually, the legendary Mercedes-Benz 600 assumed the mantle of state carriage, holding it for almost thirty years. As well as being used by the government of the Federal Republic of Germany for official business it was the preferred vehicle of governments from numerous other countries and many prominent dynasties. Further Pullman versions of the Mercedes-Benz S-Guard featuring special protection followed in these illustrious footsteps. Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of DaimlerChrysler: "The new Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard Pullman continues an impressive tradition and, as before, will offer the very highest levels of protection, comfort and prestige."

Governments, heads of state and royalty all over the world have always appreciated Mercedes-Benz' vast experience and pioneering technical achievements in the construction of prestigious limousines featuring special protection. The luxury limousine not only provides all the communications and entertainment equipment they need, it also offers them space for discreet meetings. So they have everything perfectly under control, whatever the situation, with the added bonus of highly comfortable, individually styled surroundings.

Newly developed based on the S 600

In terms of technology, the new Pullman Limousine is based on the flagship Mercedes Benz S 600 L Guard model. Power comes courtesy of a smooth twelve-cylinder biturbo engine with a displacement of 5513 cc, an output of 380kW/517 hp and an impressive peak torque of 830 Nm.

Both the chassis and the body are new developments, since simply adding on an extension would not have ensured the required overall stability, given the extra-long wheelbase. These new developments also provide the solid design basis for the installation of the heavy special-protection components. In addition, the new State Limousine features a rear entrance with increased headroom. Behind the partition, there is space for four passengers in the rear compartment with luxurious face-to-face seats in the time-honoured Pullman tradition.

Integrated special protection for highest possible security

The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard Pullman also offers its discerning passengers the highest possible degree of protection against terrorist attacks. The Highest Protection specified for this car is equivalent to resistance level B6/B7, as tested and certified by state-approved organisations. Plus it meets further requirements that are not even stipulated by any standard, as tested by public and independent organisations. Its armour resists military-standard small-arms projectiles and provides protection against fragments from hand grenades and other explosive devices. Additional safety features include run-flat tyres, a self-sealing fuel tank and a fire-extinguishing system.

In order to achieve the highest possible degree of protection, specialists with many years of experience in security technology equip the Pullman Limousine in Sindelfingen, working on the principle of integrated special protection. In effect this means that, rather than retrofitting the protective elements in the doors, rear wall, side panels, roof lining and firewall, etc. of an already finished vehicle, they fully integrate them into the bodyshell. Hence the body structure is further reinforced. The resulting vehicles offer hallmark Mercedes-Benz build quality combined with comprehensive Highest Protection, including in those areas where retrofits would be all but impossible. The basis for this is long-standing, continuous and close cooperation with nationally and internationally recognised security authorities. Over a period of decades, this collaboration has ensured that the production and development expertise of the Mercedes specialists has continued to grow. Their vast experience in the fields of protection technology and ballistics enables them to react to changing requirements in the most effective way possible.

Thanks to seamless integration of the special-protection features, the paint quality and corrosion protection match the high standards of conventional Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. Furthermore, the Pullman Limousines can be serviced at any Mercedes-Benz service outlet world-wide – a key aspect of the comprehensive, uncomplicated high-level service concept.

It goes without saying that every new Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard Pullman will display its own unique brand of styling thanks to an extensive range of appointments options including a choice of paint finishes, leathers and woods. Even the most unusual of customer requests can be met.

The first editions of the new Mercedes-Benz State Limousine are due to be delivered in late 2008.

Posted by Frank at 10:04 AM

Ford working to boost residual values

By shrinking its rental volume, Ford is seeking improved residual values for its current models, according to a recent company report."Reducing our rental volume to improve our vehicles' residual value is part of our way forward strategy," said John Felice, director of Ford's North American fleet, lease and remarketing. "We anticipate and plan an overall decline in fleet volume this year, but it's almost exclusively attributable to a decrease in rental volume."

Posted by Frank at 09:56 AM

Ford donates limited-edition 200 Fender Stratocaster guitars to United Way of Cleveland's GuitarMania

* Ford donates one-of-a-kind Fender Stratocaster guitar autographed by racing great Carroll Shelby to GuitarMania fundraiser in support of Greater Cleveland United Way and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame education fund.

* Ford partners with Fender Guitars to offer two customized guitars through the Ford Collection.

* Ford to sponsor two 9-foot Fender Stratocaster® guitars, customized by the company’s own designers, at this year’s GuitarMania.

Cleveland, Feb. 23, 2007 - Celebrating fast cars and rock and roll, Ford is turning up the volume at the Cleveland Auto Show by showcasing its hot new product lineup and revving up for GuitarMania®. The company is donating the first Limited Edition Ford Shelby GT Standard Stratocaster guitar in support of this annual charity event to benefit the Greater Cleveland United Way and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s education fund.

“For some of our most successful, high quality products, it all starts in Cleveland with the Duratec engines built here,” said Randy Ortiz, General Sales Manager, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury. “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the spirit of this city and give back to the community than to be a part of GuitarMania.”

Buckeye Connection Key to Ford’s Winning Formula

With nearly one third of Ford’s North American engines and transmissions built in Ohio, the Buckeye State is playing a pivotal role in the success of Ford’s latest hit products. Ford’s Duratec 35 V-6 engine, built at the company’s Lima ( Ohio) Engine Plant, powers the all-new Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers, as well as the Lincoln MKZ luxury sedan. The new 2008 Ford Taurus, Taurus X and Mercury Sable will be the next success stories to feature this award-winning engine. By the end of the decade, one in every five Ford vehicles will be powered by this engine.

The Duratec 30 V-6 engine built at the company’s Cleveland Engine Plant in Brook Park, Ohio, is the driving force behind some of Ford’s most critically acclaimed vehicles – including the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan mid-size sedans. It’s also under the hood of the Ford Escape – which has sold more than a million units – and the Mercury Mariner, the compact SUVs that is attracting more new customers to the company as a percentage than any other product except Mustang.

In addition, Ford’s Ohio Assembly Plant in Avon Lake is home to the Ford E-Series van, the perennial best-seller that is celebrating 25 years of sales leadership. Ford’s presence in Ohio includes 12,000 employees working at 10 plants, more than 25,000 retirees and 215 dealers.

Blue Oval and Cleveland Rock

Ford’s support of GuitarMania is the latest example of its continued commitment to supporting the United Way. In 2006, Ford Motor Company pledged more than $16 million to United Way nationally.

GuitarMania ( http://www.cleveland.com/guitarmania ) is a greater Cleveland community public art project that has raised more than $1.5 million for its two benefiting charities – United Way

of Greater Cleveland and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum’s education fund. Through its participation in GuitarMania and the donation of the unique Stratocaster guitar, the company is working to increase support for United Way contributions in Cleveland.

The GuitarMania project consists of oversized Stratocaster guitars that are creatively transformed into works of art by local artists and national celebrities and displayed on the city streets of Cleveland for residents and visitors to enjoy June through November 2007. In addition to donating a unique Stratocaster to GuitarMania, Ford will sponsor two larger-than-life guitars customized by the company’s designers to benefit this event.

The Stratocaster is one of two Fender® guitars that will be available through the Ford Collection (www.fordcollection.com) beginning March 1, 2007. The Limited Edition Ford Shelby GT Standard Stratocaster guitar is inspired by the custom instrument that was sold with the first production 2007 Ford Shelby GT Mustang at Barrett-Jackson® for a whopping $600,000 – all donated to the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation. The first of these 200 limited-edition guitars will be signed by Carroll Shelby and donated to GuitarMania. Each one is individually numbered on the neck plate.

The Ford Collection also will offer the Fender Sonoran™ dreadnought acoustic guitar, crafted from a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides. It features Venetian cutaway, exclusive blue-burst finish, Fender electronics, Stratocaster headstock and die-cast tuners and pickup.

These distinctive instruments will be on display at the Cleveland Auto Show alongside the hot Ford Shelby GT and other new Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products. Consumers can see the custom guitars and Ford Motor Company vehicles on the show floor beginning Feb. 24, 2007.

Posted by Frank at 09:54 AM

The Limited Edition Discovery 3 Pursuit

Gaydon, Warwickshire – A new well-equipped limited edition Discovery 3, called the Pursuit, will be on sale in March 2007, for under £30,000 OTR.

Only 300 Discovery 3 'Pursuits' will be available from Land Rover dealerships across the country. Based on the TDV6 GS model, the Pursuit also features Java Black paint work with Ebony interior, 19” alloy wheels, body coloured wheel arch surrounds, manual leather seats and chrome finish mirror caps.

Land Rover’s multi-award winning Discovery 3 is a technology-packed, premium 4x4 designed to deliver outstanding performance both on the road and off-road. The bold, versatile design is distinctively Land Rover and offers exceptional space, comfort and flexibility, for up to seven adults.

All Pursuit limited editions are powered by the Discovery’s acclaimed TDV6 diesel engine and feature standard technologies including Hill Descent Control, air suspension and Terrain ResponseTM, all industry-firsts for Land Rover.

"Since launch, the Discovery 3 has brought new levels of ability, comfort and refinement to the large 4x4 market. Winning 95 awards worldwide is a testament to its class-leading diesel engine, its versatility and its all-round package," commented John Edwards, Land Rover UK managing director.

"The limited-edition Discovery 3 Pursuit gives customers the opportunity to buy an exclusive specification for the exceptional price of £29,995 OTR for the TDV6 manual and £30,995 OTR with automatic transmission. We think this represents incredible value for money".

All Land Rover vehicles include a CO2 offset for the first 45,000 miles within the on-the-road price. Administered by Climate Care, an independent CO2 offset provider, the programme ensures that the average amount of CO2 produced by a Land Rover is offset by investments in a mixed portfolio of projects, including renewable energy, technology change and energy efficiency initiatives.

The Discovery 3 has sold nearly 30,000 units in the UK and 115,000 units globally since launch in 2004, and continues to collect critical accolades the world over.

To book a test drive of the new Discovery 3 Pursuit or for more information regarding the Land Rover range, please visit your local Land Rover dealership or log onto www.landrover.co.uk.

Posted by Frank at 09:53 AM

Automakers Applaud President Bush's Commitment to Alternative Fuels

WASHINGTON -- Automobile manufacturers today commended President Bush for continuing to encourage the development of alternative fuel automobiles and alternative fuels. Currently manufacturers are offering 60 models of alternative fuel automobiles including ethanol- capable E-85, hybrid electric, clean diesel and more. A complete list of available vehicles can be found at http://www.discoveralternatives.org/.

The Alliance supports improved energy conservation and energy security, and automakers advocate developing U.S. transportation energy policy that is comprehensive involving all sectors of the economy.

"The President recognizes that in order to enhance our energy security, we must develop an energy policy that incorporates all stakeholders, including alternative energy suppliers, the research & development and scientific community, the investment community, government at all levels and especially consumers," stated Dave McCurdy, President of the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers. "Reducing petroleum consumption is a shared responsibility."

Automakers are working with the energy industry to develop a range of alternative fuels capable of sustaining mobility while ensuring more secure energy sources. Alliance members have forged more than 25 partnerships, joint ventures or research and development projects with energy producers to expand the fueling infrastructure for fuels such as ethanol, biomass and hydrogen.

McCurdy added, "Alternative Fuel Autos of all kinds are a reality today. Whether it's achieving greater fuel economy or reducing America's reliance on oil as a primary fuel source, automakers remain committed to populating America's roadways with innovative vehicle technologies."

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers is a trade association of 9 car and light truck manufacturers including BMW Group, DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen. For more information on advanced fuel-savings technology, visit the Alliance website at http://www.autoalliance.org/.

Source: The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers

Posted by Frank at 09:49 AM

February 22, 2007

VW's proud of catching the Little Miss Sunshine Bus

U.S. surprise blockbuster collects numerous nominations and awards

WOLFSBURG, Germany - It is crashing through barriers in a truly heroic manner, not even a broken clutch can stop it: The reliable Volkswagen bus T2 is the seventh member of the quirky yet heartwarming Hoover family of the successful comedy “Little Miss Sunshine” (Twentieth Century Fox).

The independently made road movie has proven to be unstoppable itself: About one year after being presented to the public at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival “Little Miss Sunshine” has become stunningly successful at the most recent movie award ceremonies.

Touching emotions and an endearing kind of humor make this comedy about a bunch of losers a real winner: So far "Little Miss Sunshine" has been the surprise success of this year’s Hollywood awards – and the prized journey isn’t over yet with the Oscar™ ceremony just around the corner. "Little Miss Sunshine" has snagged up four Academy Award nominations: Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, Best Supporting Actress (for ten-year-old Abigail Breslin) and Best Supporting Actor (Alan Arkin). The Oscar™ ceremony will be held on February 25th.

Leading up to the most recognized movie award this wonderful comedy has already piled up an amazing number of nominations and awards from all over Hollywood. Two Golden Globe nominations from the "Hollywood Foreign Press Association" have been followed by the "Best Picture" Award of the "Producers Guild Of America" and the award for the best original screen play at the "Writers Guild Awards" on February 11th for Michael Arndt. Only recently the "Screen Actors Guild" awarded the "Hoover family" with the trophy for the "Best Cast". Actor Greg Kinnear took the opportunity to point out his appreciation of the automotive member of the cast: "I'd like to thank the engineers at Volkswagen for making a beautiful vehicle back in 1969 that was comfortable and so safe."

In the movie the six human Hoovers pile up in the almost 40-year-old Volkswagen bus to take the seven-year-old Olive (Abigail Breslin), who is dreaming of winning the "Little Miss Sunshine" contest, from Albuquerque/New Mexico to Redondo Beach/California. During their two-day road trip full of nutty adventures the six strange individuals grow into one strong and supportive union. The Volkswagen bus has a major role in the family building process as its ongoing little problems require the family to stand together in order to move on.

In fact, Actor Steve Carrell („Frank") has fallen for the brave family vehicle because of its almost human faults: „I think that the bus is actually a real actor in this movie", says Carrell. Five identical buses have been used during the production of „Little Miss Sunshine".

For the Volkswagen bus T2 „Little Miss Sunshine" hasn’t been the first movie appearance. In fact, the T2 has summed up a variety of successful movie parts as the lovable vehicle to date has shown its unique moves in more than 80 movies. Among others the four-wheeled director’s favorite has starred in: Back to the Future (1985), Free Willy (1993), Almost Famous (2000), Charlie’s Angels (2000), Spy Game (2001), Hulk (2003), and Scary Movie 4 (2006).

Posted by Frank at 06:10 PM

American Honda and Keep America Beautiful Join Forces

Paving a Road to a Cleaner Tomorrow

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today that it will work with Keep America Beautiful® to sponsor a series of local clean up activities in Los Angeles, New York and Gulfport, Mississippi from March through May.

The series of events will kick off with a Keep Los Angeles Beautiful clean up rally on Saturday, March 3, 2007 on the steps of Los Angeles City Hall. With help from Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and a representative from the White House, American Honda will offer its support to volunteers as they plant trees and flowers, remove graffiti, pick up litter and recycle around various parts of the city utilizing Honda's eco-friendly Civic Hybrids.

Keep America Beautiful's Great American Cleanup™ is one of the largest annual grassroots programs committed to community improvement and education. As the official 2007 national automobile manufacturer sponsor of the Great American Cleanup, American Honda will support the organization's more than 2 million volunteers in 14,000 communities actively participating in 30,000 events dedicated to cleaning up and beautifying the environment across the nation.

"We are proud to support the Keep America Beautiful program to help our local communities stay clean and green," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Honda prides itself on offering environmentally-responsible products like the Accord Hybrid, Civic GX natural gas vehicle and Civic Hybrid, and this project is consistent with our corporate philosophy."

To aid in spreading the word about the Keep America Beautiful's Great American Cleanup, American Honda is working with more than 100 of its local Honda dealers to provide information on clean up volunteer opportunities throughout the United States. The clean up event date for areas of Gulfport affected by Hurricane Katrina will be March 20, followed by April 24 for the New York City efforts in the five local boroughs.

Sweepstakes rules, volunteer opportunities and additional information on American Honda's involvement with Keep America Beautiful's Great American Cleanup program are available at www.HondaCleanup.com. For more information and downloadable high-resolution images of Honda vehicles, please visit www.HondaNews.com. Consumer information is available at www.honda.com.

Posted by Frank at 06:08 PM

LoJack Recovers Milestone 100,000th Stolen Vehicle in U.S.

Radio Frequency Technology and Integration with Police Integral to Recovery

WESTWOOD -- LoJack Corporation, the leading global provider of tracking and recovery systems for stolen mobile assets, today announced it has recovered a milestone 100,000th stolen vehicle in the United States. The recovery, which took place in Philadelphia and leveraged LoJack's Police Tracking Computers that are installed in police aviation units and squad cars, is another proof point that LoJack's radio frequency technology and direct integration with police is the optimal solution for stolen vehicle recovery.

"We are proud to reach this milestone and, most importantly, we are proud of LoJack's continued ability over the past two decades to partner with police departments such as those in Philadelphia to help in the fight against vehicle theft," said Richard T. Riley, LoJack's Chairman and CEO. "The LoJack System's integration with more than 1,800 law enforcement agencies in the United States has proven time and time again to be a solution that works. It has enabled law enforcement utilizing our system to recover over 100,000 stolen LoJack-equipped vehicles, while also helping them put criminals, of these and other more serious crimes, behind bars."

The 100,000th U.S. Recovery: How Police Used LoJack's Covert System to Foil the Thieves

The recovery took place in Eastern Philadelphia on January 12, 2007, involving a stolen 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. The SUV was tracked and recovered by a joint effort between a Philadelphia Police Department Aviation Unit and a Philadelphia Police Major Crimes Auto Squad, both of which were equipped with the LoJack System. The Philadelphia helicopter tracked the signal of the stolen vehicle to its approximate location and officers from the Major Crimes Auto Squad then used the LoJack System to pinpoint the vehicle's precise location. In this recovery, the thief disabled the vehicle's GPS system, but could not disengage the LoJack System due to its covert nature.

Source: LoJack Corporation

Posted by Frank at 04:18 PM

More Than One-Third Say Traffic Congestion is a Serious Problem in Their Community

Over half of those in the Western Region of the United States say traffic is a serious problem

ROCHESTER -- Unfortunately, traffic congestion and their accompanying delays are a fact of life in many communities and for many U.S. adults. Just over one-third (37%) say that traffic congestion is a serious problem in their community, while one-quarter say traffic congestion is a serious problem that is not being addressed. 12 percent say it is a serious problem that is being addressed. Just under two in five (39%) say traffic is a moderate problem and 21 percent say it is not a problem at all.

This is definitely a case of region playing a role. Just one-quarter (26%) of those who live in the Midwest and 32 percent of those in the South say traffic congestion is a serious problem. In the East, over one-third (37%) say traffic congestion is a serious problem. Compare this to the West where over half (56%) believe traffic congestion is a serious problem.

These are some of the results of a Harris Poll of 2,337 U.S. adults conducted online between January 11 and 18, 2007 by Harris Interactive(R).

Would the United States Accept A Congestion Tax?

Recently, the city of London introduced its controversial "congestion tax" as a way to help reduce traffic levels and all that accompanies it, many people around the world watched to see if the public would accept the policy. While it seems to be going smoothly in London, U.S. adults do not appear to be as ready to embrace such a congestion tax in their cities.

When it comes to imposing a congestion tax in U.S. cities, two-thirds (66%) of adults oppose such a tax with half (51%) saying they strongly oppose it. Just 22 percent say they support it. Even among those who say traffic in their community is a serious problem most would not support such a tax. Only three in ten (29%) of those who say traffic is a serious problem support a congestion tax while 61 percent oppose it. This may be an issue of the importance of cars to Americans and the lack of good public transportation in many U.S. cities, not just a case of not wanting to pay another tax.

Home Purchases Can Lead to Reduced Energy Costs

Harris Interactive also asked people if they would be willing to pay a higher price for a new house that would reduce energy use and could also reduce their monthly heating and cooling bills. Seven in ten U.S. adults say they would be willing to pay more for such a house and only 19 percent said they would not be willing. However, people were not asked how much more they would be willing to pay.

Other findings in this Harris Poll include:

-- Over two in five (44%) of those who use public transportation to get to
work say traffic congestion is a serious and unaddressed problem in
their community while less than one-quarter (23%) of those who drive
themselves share this sentiment. This may reflect the greater use of
public transportation in larger cities;
-- Just over half (55%) of adults drive themselves to work while only 4
percent each take public transportation, walk or are part of a carpool;
-- Those in the East are more likely to drive themselves to work (58%) and
are also more likely to take public transportation (8%), while seven
percent of those in the West say they are part of a carpool.
-- Six in ten (61%) of U.S. adults say they are concerned about global
warming while 35 percent are not concerned. There is a gender
difference on this issue as two-thirds of women (67%) say they are
concerned while just 55 percent of men say they are concerned about
global warming;
-- When it comes to spending more for a home that would reduce energy
costs, Baby Boomers and Echo Boomers are slightly more likely than
other generations (73% and 72% respectively) to say they would be
willing to do this.

Posted by Frank at 04:16 PM

Harley-Davidson and York Union Reach Agreement

Motorcycle Production to Resume Tonight

YORK -- Harley-Davidson Motor Company reported that motorcycle production will resume with the third shift this evening at the Company's final assembly operations in York, following today's ratification of a new labor agreement by its unionized employees. The new three-year agreement between the Company and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 175 becomes effective today.

Harley-Davidson employees in York had been on strike since Feb. 2, after rejecting an initial proposed labor agreement Jan. 31.

IAM Local 175 represents about 2,800 production employees at Harley- Davidson's facility in York, which produces the Company's Touring and Softail motorcycles and is the Company's largest production operation.

"We are eager to get back to work producing motorcycles again," said Fred Gates, General Manager of Harley-Davidson's Operations in York. "Our employees take enormous pride in building the best, highest quality motorcycles in the world and we all look forward to focusing our attention on meeting the needs of our customers."

"The agreement is an important step in managing costs that could be detrimental to the business over the long term if the Company doesn't start to control them now," said Gates. "The agreement helps reduce the escalation in health care and other labor-related costs while continuing to provide an outstanding total compensation and benefits package. We appreciate the support of our union employees for sharing in the solutions to ongoing business challenges," Gates said.

The new labor agreement provides annual wage increases of four percent in each of the contract's three years. The agreement also establishes a two-tier wage structure which starts employees hired after the contract's effective date at a wage rate that is lower than current employees, but equalizes pay by the end of the contract's term. On the benefits side, unionized employees will participate in a new health plan that continues to require no employee premium but includes increases in the level of out-of-pocket costs that employees could incur for deductibles and co-pays. Under the agreement, unionized employees in York continue to be fully covered by the Company's traditional non-contributory pension plan. However, for new hires, the agreement reduces the Company's match of optional contributions that employees can make to the contributory portion of the plan. The agreement also doubles the Company's 401(k) match to 50 percent and provides other compensation and benefit improvements.

Harley-Davidson's production and distribution facilities in Wisconsin are expected to resume normal operations over the next several weeks as a result of the resumption of production in York. The Company's Wisconsin operations experienced reduced production and temporary layoffs of some employees due to the strike. The Wisconsin production facilities supply engines, transmissions and other components to Harley-Davidson's final assembly operations in York and Kansas City.

The Company expects to release information on the business impact of the strike early in the week of Feb. 26.

Harley-Davidson Motor Company (NYSE:HOG) , the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson's web site at http://www.harley-davidson.com/ .

Source: Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Posted by Frank at 04:15 PM

Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Dealers Announce Continued Sponsorship of 'Carnaval on the Mile'

- Second consecutive year Miami-area Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers are exclusive automotive sponsors and lead corporate sponsor

- More than 100,000 visitors and spectators will attend the three-day extravaganza

- Event is billed as the premiere Latin Jazz festival in the country

AUBURN HILLS -- Today, for the second consecutive year, Chrysler Group and its Miami-area Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers announced their continued title sponsorship of the annual "Carnaval on the Mile" event, held in Coral Gables, Fla., and produced by the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana. The announcement was made during the press event held by the Kiwanis to kick off the promotional activities for the festival.

Carnaval on the Mile is billed as the premier Latin Jazz festival in the country. A family-oriented event with free admission, it acts as a fundraiser to support the many community projects sponsored by the Little Havana Kiwanis Chapter throughout the year.

"As a board member of the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana and as a Chrysler, Jeep dealer, I am proud of the Chrysler Group and the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers of Miami for their sponsorship of this exciting event," said Carlos Planas, General Manager - Tamiami Chrysler Jeep. "Artists, musicians and chefs share their talents with attendees, and the money raised goes to Kiwanis programs that assist the community. I could not think of a more enjoyable event that has such a positive outcome."

The festival begins Friday at the Ponce de Leon Circle in Coral Gables, with a concert lineup that includes the Decotones, Artofficial, the Miami Entertainment Group, and Suenalo. Saturday the event is extended to the Miracle Mile-known for its shops and cafes-and expands to include an artists' village with more than 100 fine artists including renowned artist and Carnaval Miami Poster winner, Gilda Sacasas. Local gourmet restaurants will provide cooking demonstrations and present many Latin delicacies throughout the day.

"Our sponsorship of Carnaval on the Mile is just one example of our dealers' dedication to their local communities," said Erwin Raphael, Director - Retail Sales Promotions, Southeast Business Center, Chrysler Group. "We are pleased that we can play a role with our dealers to present an international, entertaining and family-friendly event like this."

This year's festival is a special tribute to New Orleans. Several acts, including Doctor John and the Hot 8 Brass Band are traveling from New Orleans to perform Saturday evening on the Ponce de Leon Stage, presented by Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge. Grammy-winning composer and musician Arturo Sandoval, widely recognized as a virtuoso classical and Latin jazz musician will perform Sunday evening on the same stage.

The festival runs from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, March 2; 9 a.m. to midnight Saturday, March 3; and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday March 4.

About Carnaval on the Mile

Carnaval on the Mile began as Sun Day on the Mile in 1999 and celebrates its second year as a full weekend event. It is just one of the festivals that makes up Carnaval Miami, created by the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana as a fundraiser to provide playgrounds, sports camps and scholarships for Miami area youth.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 04:13 PM

Who Is Looking at Billboards?

New Measurement System to Deliver Accurate 'Eyes On' Audience Data to Advertisers

NEW YORK -- Outdoor advertising will never be looked at the same way again by advertisers and agencies with the development of a new integrated audience measurement system, the first of its kind able to report real commercial data on the number of people likely to see a given ad. The new system, being implemented in phases by the Traffic Audit Bureau for Media Measurement (TAB), will provide comprehensive measures of both pedestrian and vehicular audiences with a complete rollout scheduled by third quarter 2008.

Despite being the oldest form of media, outdoor is changing with the times and is one of only two media (the other being the Internet) currently exhibiting growth at a time when questions are being raised about the measurement of audience delivery in other media. Until now, researchers have been limited to reporting on a person's opportunity to see a certain ad, but this new approach employs visibility, or "eyes on," tracking to give advertisers a much more accurate assessment of how many people are likely to see their message, be it driving by a giant billboard or walking past a transit shelter. The system will also report on audience demographics for outdoor advertising in over 200 markets.

"This is a change we have actively been working on for some time," said TAB President & CEO Joe Philport. "We sprang into action amidst concerns that existing outdoor measurement methods needed to be upgraded in order to keep pace with the demand for greater accountability. We are surpassing all other media by taking the lead in bringing outdoor into the 21st century with a comprehensive system that provides a solid foundation for future measurement."

As part of the first phase of the program, now under way, the TAB has contracted with MediaMark Research Inc. (MRI) to initiate 4,200 detailed travel surveys in five markets -- Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Dallas and San Francisco -- using face-to-face computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI). MRI will also conduct nearly 50,000 surveys to collect information about general travel patterns in a total of 15 markets. These high-quality techniques will be used to gather comprehensive trip information, including routes taken, mode of transportation and purpose of each trip. Additionally, this study will incorporate a viable approach to measurement of pedestrian audiences.

The TAB already collects traffic count data for nearly 500,000 units of outdoor inventory around the country and is in the process of conducting extensive eye-tracking research on the attention given to outdoor advertising. Philport continued, "All of this information will be brought together, providing an integrated approach that shows outdoor can, indeed, be quantified by providing highly accurate, meaningful numbers."

Following a competitive RFP process that included proposals from several leading research companies from around the world, MRI, Telmar and Transearch were among those selected to work with the TAB on this project. MRI will design and execute the travel surveys, while GfK Custom Research North America has been chosen to conduct the "eyes on" research, Telmar will provide modeling and analytic expertise and Transearch will be responsible for conducting the pedestrian component of the study.

About the TAB

Established in 1933, the Traffic Audit Bureau for Media Measurement Inc. is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to audit Out of Home media in the United States. Run by a tripartite board comprised of advertisers, agencies and media companies, the TAB acts an independent auditor in accordance to guidelines established by their Board of Directors. These rules govern both how audits are conducted as well as how circulation figures are reported by media companies.

Source: Traffic Audit Bureau

Posted by Frank at 04:12 PM

Mercedes-Benz Unimog is 2007 Cross-Country Vehicle of the Year

* Readers of "OFF ROAD" magazine have voted the Unimog cross-country vehicle of the year in the "Special vehicles" category

* Mercedes G-Class wins the "Classics" category

Stuttgart -- For the third time, readers of "Off Road" magazine have voted the Mercedes-Benz Unimog cross-country vehicle of the year in the "Special vehicles" category. The Unimog picked up the title of "2007 cross-country vehicle of the year - Special vehicles category" after the October issue of the respected Munich-based all-wheel-drive magazine invited readers to vote for a selection of cross-country vehicles in a total of eight categories.

The awards – which took the form of glass OFF ROAD obelisks – were presented during a special gala evening which was held at Munich's "Das Schloss" theatre tent on February 8, 2007. Over 56,000 readers had selected the winners from the 80 vehicles nominated by the organisers. Mercedes-Benz models were winners in two categories: the Unimog was the top-scoring model among the "Special vehicles" with an outstanding 59% of the readers' votes while the Mercedes G-Class won the "Classics" category.

The eight categories for which readers were invited to cast their votes were "Cross-country vehicles", "Luxury cross-country vehicles", "Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs)", "Luxury SUVs", "Classics", "Pick-ups", "Special vehicles" and "Crossover vehicles".

Among the special vehicles – cross-country vehicles used for transporting loads and cargo in remote areas or as a basis for special bodies used by fire-fighters, expeditions and the military – the Unimog easily led the field. Its signature product characteristics, such as its portal axles which provide outstanding off-road capability and its tremendous torsional flexibility combined with exceptional ruggedness and strength, came in for particular praise. Martin C. Klein, head of Sales/Marketing, accepted the award from OFF ROAD's Florian Pillau on behalf of the Special Vehicles Division of DaimlerChrysler AG.

The Unimog was also voted cross-country vehicle of the year in 1994 – in the form of the U 90 "Funmog" which combined attributes of urban, leisure, cross-country and commercial vehicles.

Produced at the Wörth plant since 2002, the high-mobility Unimog U 3000 to U 5000 model series is the natural choice for difficult all-terrain operations far from roads and tracks. Its principal applications are in the domains of fire-fighting (especially in the context of forest fires), disaster relief, expedition transport as well as service and maintenance work in areas where access is difficult.

The Unimog U 3000, U 4000 and U 5000 models are therefore the ideal complement to the all-terrain implement carriers which make up the U 300 to U 500 model series and which are used principally by public service organisations and municipal contractors as well as in the construction and energy sectors, in intra-plant transport applications and for road/rail work. The latest addition to the Unimog family, the compact U 20 made its first public appearance at the 2006 IAA commercial vehicle show.

The "Classics" category – which was won by the Mercedes-Benz G-Class –comprises cross-country vehicles which have defied changing fashions and have remained true to their original identity for many years. The G-Class model series, which has been in production since 1979, currently comprises three engine variants: one turbodiesel with common-rail direct injection as well as two eight-cylinder petrol units.

Posted by Frank at 10:35 AM

Drive New Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Vehicles at the 2007 Cleveland Auto Show

CLEVELAND -- Hot, new Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Concepts and production vehicles are rolling into the 2007 Cleveland Auto Show and this year's displays are more interactive than ever.

Auto Show goers will get the chance to ride and drive at Camp Jeep(R) Cleveland, the Dodge Performance Zone and the Chrysler Inspired Drive Tour. Don't miss the following products, concepts and interactive displays at the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge exhibit.

Camp Jeep Cleveland
Put a Jeep to the ultimate test with a thrilling Jeep Trail Rated riding experience. Camp Jeep Cleveland features water fording, ground clearance, articulation, traction and maneuverability demonstrations including the famous Jeep Mountain, a 16 foot vertical climb. More than 220 yards (5,700 cubic feet) of dirt and wood chips will be used to construct the Jeep Trail Rated course inside the Cleveland Auto Show. Camp Jeep Cleveland will also feature a Mini Jeep Kidz Course, an 18' climbing wall, Jeep Gaming Station and the Jeep Photo Zone.

New Dodge Performance Zone
New to Cleveland this year will be the Dodge Performance Zone, where auto show goers can ride with professional drivers through live demonstrations of slalom, traction, braking and acceleration tests up to 28 mph in a Dodge Magnum SRT8, Dodge Charger SRT8 or Dodge Nitro.

New Chrysler Inspired Drive Tour
The weekend of March 2-4 from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, auto show attendees can get behind the wheel of a 2007 Chrysler Aspen, 300 or Sebring for a hands-on experience with Chrysler's stylish designs and unique state-of the art innovations including: Electronic Stability Program (ESP), MyGIG(TM) Infotainment, Stow 'n Go(R), HEMI(R) Engines, Rear Park Assist and much more.

The Cleveland Auto Show is open to the public February 24 - March 4 at the I-X Center.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 10:33 AM

Premiere in Geneva: smart fortwo BRABUS and BRABUS Xclusive

Stuttgart -- At the Geneva Motor Show (06 – 18 March 2007) smart will be presenting the two BRABUS variants of the new smart fortwo to the public for the first time.

Rated at 72 kW / 98 bhp, the smart fortwo BRABUS and smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive have more than 30 percent more engine power than the BRABUS variant of the predecessor model. At the same time the low consumption and low CO2 emissions demonstrate that this does not have to come at a cost to the environment and customers' wallets.

In addition, the two BRABUS variants boast an extremely low weight to power ratio: at just 7.8 kg/bhp this is 24 percent lower than that of the previous BRABUS variant.

The smart fortwo BRABUS places the primary focus on sportiness. Its three-cylinder petrol engine with capacity of one litre delivers 72 kW (98 bhp) and together with maximum torque of 140 Newton metres this lends the 770 kilo two-seater remarkably lively agility. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h takes less than ten seconds and the maximum speed (electronically limited) is 155 km/h.

The exterior of the smart fortwo BRABUS is first and foremost characterised by "Monoblock VI" alloy wheels, wider rear wheel arches, a sports exhaust system and fog lights. Furthermore, it has a firmer suspension setup and is lowered by 15 millimetres.

The interior of the smart fortwo BRABUS is distinguished from that of standard smart fortwo models by a number of BRABUS styling elements, for example for the gear knob, hand-brake handle and pedals. The speedometer, rev counter and clock also bear the BRABUS signature.

The same range of exterior colours is available for the smart fortwo BRABUS as for other smart fortwo models.

smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive: Luxurious equipment

Sportiness combined with a level of luxury that is unusual in this vehicle class – that's the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive. It does not differ from the BRABUS model in terms of drive and performance but it comes with additional equipment that leaves almost nothing to be desired.

Although it also sports wide "Monoblock VI" alloy wheels, wider rear wheel arches, a sports exhaust system and rear apron, it is nevertheless immediately recognisable as a BRABUS Xclusive. This is first and foremost due to the BRABUS front spoiler, BRABUS side skirts and the tinted clear glass headlights.

The interior of the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive additionally features heated leather seats embossed with the BRABUS logo. A modified three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift and BRABUS velour floor mats are also included in the standard spec. The instrument panel and door trim have a leather effect. Head/thorax side airbags, otherwise available as an option, are a standard feature in this model. These special side airbags protect the head and chest areas.

The paintwork of the smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive further underlines the exclusiveness of this model. It is exclusively available in the combinations (tridion safety cell/bodypanels) silver/silver or black/black.

The two BRABUS variants will be launched on the market in the autumn of 2007. The prices will be announced around the middle of the year.

Posted by Frank at 10:30 AM

Hyundai's Alabama Plant Attains Certification Milestone

Montgomery, Ala. -- Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, LLC (HMMA) has achieved Certification to the International Automotive Task Force’s (IATF) most rigid quality management standard, ISO/TS 16949, a set of Quality Management System requirements specific to the automotive industry. ISO/TS 16949 is the highest automotive operating standard in the world.

Hyundai’s $1.1-billion assembly plant, which began production on May 20, 2005, is one of the most technologically-sophisticated automotive manufacturing facilities in the world.

J.D. Power and Associates ranked HMMA tenth out of 73 plants in North/South America in initial quality in 2006, after less than one full year of production. HMMA’s 2800 team members produce the Hyundai Sonata sedan and Santa Fe crossover SUV.

“Before job one ever rolled off the assembly line, we committed ourselves to leading the industry in business management processes,” said John Kalson, Director of Production, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama. “We believe that quality vehicles start with quality manufacturing, and we’re proud to deliver both at HMMA.”

HMMA initiated the evaluation process for ISO/TS 16949;2002 certification in the summer of 2004, shortly before the 2-million square-foot plant opened for business. The two-year process began with a performance evaluation of current HMMA systems versus TS 16949 requirements. Once the evaluation was complete, HMMA Team members and a consulting team from SAI Global refined the systems, satisfying the TS requirements but also ensuring total vehicle quality. Never being satisfied, HMMA members are continually looking for ways to improve work processes.

“We’re very excited that Hyundai has taken this initiative to ensure the highest OEM manufacturing quality standards are met,” said Rob Brayfield, President, of VCA North America, “Hyundai’s commitment to continually improving quality and customer satisfaction will no doubt raise the bar for the industry.”

Benefits of adopting the ISO/TS 16949 standard include improving quality of processes at the facility along with streamlining supply chains, both leading to a better overall product.

About HMMA

Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, headquartered in Montgomery, Ala., is an independent manufacturing operation of Hyundai Motor Company, based in Seoul, Korea. HMMA currently produces the Sonata sedan and the next generation 2007 Santa Fe sport utility vehicle. At full capacity, HMMA will produce 300,000 vehicles annually. Hyundai cars and sport utility vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 755 Hyundai dealerships.

Posted by Frank at 10:25 AM

Goodyear Introduces Carbon Fiber ATV Drive Belt

AKRON, Ohio -- Goodyear Engineered Products is hitting the trail with a "self-healing" carbon-fiber- loaded ATV drive belt that can reduce the possibility of a long walk home.

Goodyear Gatorback Sport is the first Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT belt with carbon fiber reinforcement in its body construction, according to Loren Danhauer, Goodyear chief belt engineer.

"Threadlike strands of carbon fiber are strong and flexible and weigh much less than steel of similar strength," said Danhauer. "The fiber alignment in the rubber compound provides added stiffness across the width of the belt."

Jonathan Cocco, marketing manager for Goodyear aftermarket products, said a Goodyear survey of quad riders shows they want precise, immediate throttle response and off-road durability whether for hunters, ranchers, fire rescue teams or sport enthusiasts.

A CVT system varies the working ratio of two v-shaped pulleys linked by the belt, said Cocco. The distance between pulley flanges can fluctuate, allowing the belt to ride smoothly up or down the pulley, continuously changing the gear ratio and varying vehicle speeds.

The pulleys are part of a power sensing drive that increases tension during acceleration and lowers tension when power is reduced.

Danhauer explained that conventional CVT belt sidewalls can glaze and char from heat buildup when engaged with pulleys under extreme loads. Materials from the top width of the belt then turn down and inward, creating vibrations that can quickly destroy the belt.

"Gatorback Sport regulates itself under extreme events," said Danhauer. "Its carbon fiber in the rubber compound allows desired edge slippage without losing top width. When extreme demand subsides, the belt self-heals and again picks up the load."

Danhauer added that tests he conducted show significantly improved top width wear and reduced belt weight loss.

Cocco said Gatorback Sport is responsive and durable. "Its aggressive carbon fiber material maintains pulley grip without sacrificing belt wear," he said. "It provides quick, clean throttle response to help riders conquer steep hills and nasty mud pits, while withstanding inadvertent abuse, such as spin-and-runs."

Gatorback Sport's performance was born from race technology introduced last year. Hendrick Motorsports and eventual NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Champion Jimmy Johnson turned to Goodyear for help after making mid-season engine adjustments for added horsepower that increased demand on cam drive belts by 50 percent.

Goodyear quickly responded by mixing carbon fiber reinforcement in rubber compounds for the new timing belt. The result was an advanced composite that withstood the increased loads and higher temperatures, allowed engines to run more efficiently, and provided precision timing in a very harsh environment.

"Buoyed by our success with carbon fiber, we went to work on the CVT belt for all-terrain vehicles," said Cocco. "Its performance earns it the Gatorback name, joining a growing family of popular Gatorback automotive belts that are used by all major NASCAR Cup Series teams and are available in auto part stores and service centers."

While Gatorback Sport's lateral strength comes from carbon fiber, its longitudinal strength comes from Goodyear Flexten aramid cords traveling the circumference of the belt. Flexten minimizes stretch, stabilizes overall length and maximizes horsepower transmission. "It adds up to predictable tension performance," said Danhauer, "and tension is as important to belts as air pressure is to tires."

Engineers also took care when designing belt dimensions, precisely duplicating most major ATV manufacturers' original equipment profiles and measurements for top width, length and sidewalls to ensure proper fits.

Gatorback Sport's top width range is 17 to 35 millimeters or 0.68 to 1.37 inches, while its length range is 679 to 1106 mm or 26.75 to 43.56 inches.

Source: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

Posted by Frank at 10:24 AM

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky Honors Its Top Volunteers

Georgetown, KY - Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK) honored its top volunteers during the company's annual Volunteers In Place (VIP) Recognition Dinner at the Dr. Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History in Frankfort, Ky., this past Saturday. The VIP program was developed in 1994 to encourage and recognize team member volunteer work while supporting TMMK's operating principles and firm commitment to good corporate citizenship.

"As a company, Toyota's philosophy is to give back to the communities where we do business," stated Pat D'Eramo, Vice President of Manufacturing at TMMK, who presented the President's Award for Outstanding Volunteer of the Year. "Our team members who are involved in our VIP program are at the heart of that philosophy and represent the best of TMMK and the best in our communities."

Participation in the VIP program has consistently grown, with more than 1,100 team members currently enrolled. These team members have recorded more than 31,000 man-hours in our community. That's the equivalent of 778 work weeks spent volunteering.

Kim Sweazy, a specialist in TMMK's Community Relations department, was this year's recipient of the President's Award as the company's top volunteer of 2006. Sweazy joined TMMK in 1989. A prolific volunteer and frequent honoree at this event, Sweazy was named as a top five volunteer for a record tying seventh time. In addition, she becomes only the second person since the award's inception to win the honor twice.

Sweazy's volunteer activities include eight years of service as a Committee Chair for the Toyota MS-150 Bike The Bluegrass, to benefit the Multiple Sclerosis Society; Chairperson on three different committees for The Susan G. Komen Foundation's Pink Tie Gala; Volunteer and board member of Louisville's Project One, along with the Board of the Lexington Forum, where Sweazy is the President-Elect. Another volunteer activity that Sweazy is deeply involved with is the Children's Charity Fund of the Bluegrass. Not only does she sit on the Board of Directors of this all-volunteer effort, she also is the volunteer coordinator for this week long event. In honor of Sweazy's volunteer efforts, the Children's Charity Fund of the Bluegrass received a $3,000 donation from TMMK.

TMMK also honored Bethany Giordano, Karen Hendren, Kimberly Stamper and James Paul Switzer for their volunteer efforts.

Giordano was named as a specialist in Facilities Control at TMMK in 2002. This is her second straight year as one of TMMK's "Top Five" volunteers. Throughout the year, Giordano is very diverse in her volunteer efforts. Over the past year she has done everything from taking pledges for the KET telethon to staffing a red kettle for the Salvation Army. Her latest community involvement activity was with Georgetown's community theater group - the Maskrafters. Giordano spent the majority of volunteer time with the Scott County Humane Society, which received a $1,500 donation from TMMK in her honor.

Hendren joined TMMK in 1986. She is currently a specialist in the Community Relations section of General Administration. Hendren has now been honored as one of TMMK's Top 5 VIPs five years in a row, including winning the President's Award for 2003. She volunteers for numerous TMMK-sponsored events and animal rescue organizations, including The Kentucky Coalition for Animal Protection and Frankfort's Critterpalooza event, which raised funds for both Holly's Place in Lawrenceburg and the Franklin County Humane Society. Hendren also spends numerous hours with the Anderson, Harlan, Shelby, Pike and Mercer County Humane Societies. In addition, she is currently in her fourth year serving on the Lexington Humane Society's Board of Directors and her sixth year on the board of Wolf Run, a wildlife refuge and education facility in Nicholasville. In Hendren's honor, Wolf Run received $1,500 from TMMK.

Stamper joined TMMK in 1986 and is currently an Assistant Staff in Power Train Administration. She is no stranger to the VIP program. A previous Volunteer of the Year finalist in 2003, Stamper volunteers for various TMMK sponsored events such as God's Pantry, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. The majority of her recent volunteer efforts go to support the activities of her two children, Katie and Cory. Besides volunteering at her children's schools, Stamper also spends numerous hours working with various 4-H and FFA projects. In addition, she is serving her sixth year on the Scott County 4-H Council where she was recently elected president. In Stamper's honor, the Scott County 4-H will receive a donation of $1,500.

Switzer is being honored for the first time as a TMMK Top Five volunteer. After many years of volunteering as a coach and as a 4-H Club Leader with his three daughters, Switzer has become an integral part of both sports and 4-H in Harrison County. In the sporting arena, he is head coach of the Harrison County High School Freshman Fillies Volleyball team and an assistant coach of both the varsity and the junior varsity volleyball teams. Switzer's three daughters, Chelsey, Layken and Rebecca not only keep him extremely busy in sports but also with 4-H. He is currently serving his second term as chairman of the Harrison County District Board, Vice Chairman of the Harrison County 4-H Council, and first term as District 4 Representative for the State 4-H Council.

In recognition of his efforts with 4-H, Switzer was honored with the Conrad Feltner Leadership award at the Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Leaders Forum in February 2006. He designated the Harrison County 4-H Council to receive the $1,500 donation.

TMMK is located on 1,300 acres in Scott County and is Toyota's largest manufacturing plant in North America. Since 1987, TMMK has totaled more than $28 million in contributions and sponsorships to various charitable and non-profit organizations in Kentucky.

Posted by Frank at 10:19 AM

Making alt-fuels more sustainable

Gasoline-electric hybrid technology continues to gain momentum and Ford Motor Company researchers are working hard to advance innovative hybrid solutions to address consumer interest. Ford unveiled a hydrogen-fueled, battery-powered plug-in Ford Edge at the 2007 Washington (D.C.) Auto Show in January.

Unveiling the hybrid Edge in Washington helped Ford showcase the vehicle and its technology in front of leading government officials and legislators, an important audience as Congress begins working under new leadership.

"Besides the public, the audience in Washington includes the people in charge of energy and clean air policy so this is very much a showplace for exhibiting what Ford technology can do in the future," said Scott Staley, Ford's chief engineer for Hybrid and Fuel Cell Technology Development.

Developed under contract from the U.S. Department of Energy, the Edge is powered by the HySeries Drive, a hybrid-electric propulsion system that uses the fuel-cell power unit as a charger for the 336-volt lithium-ion battery pack.

The vehicle operates in battery-only mode for the first 25 miles at speeds of up to 85 mph. When the battery is depleted to 40 percent of its charge, the fuel cell automatically kicks in to recharge the battery, giving the car a range of 225 miles. The technology gives the vehicle the equivalent of a combined city/highway fuel economy rating of 41 mpg. The vehicle's battery pack can also be recharged overnight by plugging it into a standard electrical outlet.

Hybrid electric vehicles combine batteries and internal combustion engines (ICEs) in an arrangement that harnesses the strengths of each powertrain. In hybrids, batteries provide energy for launch and power surges as needed, while the ICE predominates once the vehicle exceeds approximately 30 mph.

Ford introduced the world's first SUV hybrid, the Escape Hybrid in 2004. Along with the Mercury Mariner Hybrid, the two hybrids remain the cleanest and most fuel-efficient small SUVs available anywhere.

Ford also plans to introduce several new hybrids in the coming years, including a Mazda Tribute Hybrid and hybrid versions of the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan midsize sedans.

Other Sustainability Advances

Biofuels
As the auto industry and its consumers grow more and more concerned over the dependence on non-renewable resources, biofuels play a key role in the future. Ford researchers are working to find many innovative solutions with biofuels, including ethanol and biodiesel.

In the United States, Ford is working with a broad range of partners and stakeholders including ethanol producers, retail fuel providers and policymakers at state and federal levels to remedy this problem.

At the recent 2007 Washington Auto Show, Ford displayed the first Ford Escape Hybrid E85. It is a demonstration vehicle marrying two petroleum-saving technologies -- hybrid electric power and flexible-fuel capability. Escape Hybrid E85 is the world’s first hybrid vehicle capable of operating on blends of fuel containing as much as 85 percent ethanol. Ford is producing 20 demonstration Escape Hybrid E85 vehicles for use in fleets in six different states.

Deliveries will begin this spring. Ford researchers are also working to allow for higher biodiesel content in future products. In addition, the company is conducting research with Michigan State University to open the doorway to extensive use of biodiesel as a fuel supplement.

U.S. Diesels
In the U.S., 2007 promises to be a milestone year for diesel vehicles. Cleaner diesel fuel was phased in nationwide in October 2006, enabling a new generation of diesel engines for 2007 and beyond.

Ford researchers are developing new concepts to address the challenges with diesel of preserving high torque and efficiency, while reducing noise, smoke and odors. Working together with Ford Diesel Powertrain Research and Advanced Engineering in Aachen, Germany, and Chemical Engineering at the RIC, the team is developing the engines, exhaust treatments, control systems and diagnostic technologies needed to provide future diesel products for the North American market.

Nanotechnology
In the field of nanotechnology, where dimensions are on a scale of 1,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair, Ford scientists are focusing on ways to improve the performance of batteries in hybrid vehicles, increase hydrogen storage, continue to strengthen things like cast aluminum used in engine blocks and other automotive applications.

In the United States, Ford is further exploring commercial applications of nanotechnology through alliances with Boeing, Northwestern University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and other universities.

Posted by Frank at 07:50 AM

Ford creating sales networks in developing nations

Ford Motor Company’s fleet sales are primarily concentrated in North America and Europe, but its vehicles also reach the most remote corners of the world in the service of international aid and development operations.

Organizations such as United Nations, USAID (United States Agency for International Development) and World Health Organization rely on a variety of Ford vehicles, including our Thailand Ranger and Everest, the versatile European Transit and of course the US Econoline. These vehicles enable a variety of aid projects and NGO’s (non-governmental organizations) to pursue economic and infrastructure initiatives in dozens of developing nations.

“It’s a rapidly growing area of our export business,” said John Mecke, director, Sales Operations for Ford Export & Growth Global Growth Initiatives (E&G).

In 2006, Ford E&G vehicle sales to its three aid and development (A&D) distributors grew by 6 percent over 2005. These distributors, Conrico Project Vehicles, Global Fleet Sales and AES Kjaer, specialize in supplying any and all vehicle needs to these many global aid agencies -- particularly in Africa and Asia.

Examples of Ford vehicles serving aid and development causes in those regions abound.

Last year, in a widely hailed African milestone, the Democratic Republic of the Congo held its first multi-party elections since gaining independence in 1960. Ford played an integral albeit unsung supporting role in the democratic process, because election officials used a fleet of 200 specially ordered Ford Rangers to collect ballots from polling precincts around the rugged rain forest country. The UN purchased the fleet from Conrico.

“Vehicles are one of the largest procurement items of any humanitarian operation,” said Barnaby Dicks, director of Conrico Project Vehicles, adding that about 30 percent of a typical A&D organization’s expenses go to transportation. “Every single project has to have wheels.”

According to Fleet Forum, which focuses on transportation trends and solutions in the A&D sector, the 40 top A&D organizations collectively operate at least 70,000 vehicles, with an estimated annual operating cost of $800 million.

Conrico also customized vehicles for the Swiss Mine Federation, which cleared mines and unexploded missiles in Afghanistan, facilitating safe humanitarian operations by the World Health Organization and World Food Program. Conrico also has supported educational initiatives in Zambia, a tuberculosis campaign in Ghana, an HIV prevention campaign in Botswana and American and European geological organizations managing wildlife migration in the Serengeti National Park.

In addition to long-term programs, Conrico, AES Kjaer and Global Fleet Sales support disaster relief such as the tsunami that devastated India and Southeast Asia in 2005.

“Whenever there’s natural disaster or devastation in the world we become an integral part of the relief effort,” David Selden, Conrico Managing Director explained.

When the needs of relief organizations are urgent, Ford's A&D distributors are prepared for rapid response service, modifying vehicles to customer specifications such as extra fuel tank capacity, underbody protection against uneven terrain, or a raised exhaust snorkel for fording rivers and flooded areas. Roll-over bars and front-end bull bars, winches, wider tires and radio equipment systems are other common modifications. Depending on the quantity of vehicles needed, the distributors can modify and ship to disaster areas within hours of receiving the order.

“The aid organizations tend to be the same for every major disaster,” Dicks said. “What changes are the specialist needs based on the circumstances, their role in the situation and the timescale in which they must respond. It's up to us to sort out their vehicle needs, leaving them free to get on with the job at hand.”

Kevin Whitcraft of Global Fleet Sales, a member of the RM Asia Group, said his group is getting excellent feedback. "Our business is growing rapidly, because we're meeting their needs with a variety of modifications," he said.

Among the daily challenges facing these distributors are language and cultural differences, varied time zones, import restrictions and inconsistent communications networks. In a business dependent on flawless customer service, however, such difficulties are simply a matter of course.

“Prompt delivery is an important priority for our clients,” said Peter Pasgaard of the Denmark-based AES Kjaer. “An A&D distributor will never sell to a client twice if they can't provide fast-moving spare parts and reliable service in the country where they're operating.”

Toyota dominates the A&D market with an estimated 80 percent share and the widest service network in Africa, but Ford continues to make in-roads, particularly with the Ranger pickup built in Thailand, Ford Everest SUV, Ford F-Series pickups, along with Econolines, Transits and Land Rover SUVs.

“The Ranger has been very well received in a number of locations, particularly in tsunami-affected countries and Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Rob McConnell, Fleet Forum founder.

McConnell added that increasing humanitarian activity brings with it expanding need for efficient transport capacity and a pressing requirement to improve the way in which organizations manage their vehicle fleets. This is a concern shared by Ford A&D fleet distributors.

Ford's distributors help A&D clients manage their fleets by coordinating with the Ford dealer service network or independent service contractors in countries where Ford lacks service representation. For larger fleets, the distributors provide technical support, spare parts and training in vehicle maintenance and off-road driving.

“There’s a renewed interest in fleet management on the part of A&D organizations,” Dicks said. “They want to protect their investment, and the more they can save by being economical and efficient the more of their money can go into helping the developing world.”

Conrico also is the exclusive global supplier of Land Rover to A&D organizations including Mines Advisory Group (MAG), a de-mining agency operating in such countries as Vietnam, Angola and Kashmir. Not only does MAG use its Land Rovers for de-mining operations, the SUVs also serve as impromptu ambulances in remote areas.

“On an operation in Angola our team was towing a water tank with its Land Rover, when it came across a group of 12 or 15 people stranded in the middle of nowhere,” said Rob White, MAG director of operations. “Thanks to the Land Rover’s capability we were able to provide water and medical aid, and without wanting to exaggerate, save lives.”

Whether A&D organizations aim to save lives or simply improve living conditions, Ford's global A&D distributors are making a difference.

“They know what we stand for,” Pasgaard said, “and they know it is service they can trust.”

Posted by Frank at 07:48 AM

Chrysler workers, dealers shaken

Uncertainty about the future of DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group has made already tough times even more challenging for salaried workers at Chrysler's Auburn Hills headquarters, as well as for Chrysler dealers.

Both groups are key to any Chrysler comeback, but they are growing increasingly anxious as speculation swirls about a possible sale of the automaker.

White-collar workers are being asked to pour their energy into pulling off a restructuring of the beleaguered company even as they worry about whether they'll have jobs.

Retailers wonder what the implications could be for them if Chrysler is sold, especially if the buyer turns out to be General Motors Corp., which would give GM 3,700 more dealers while it is working to shrink its body of 7,000 retailers.

Chrysler CEO Tom LaSorda knows it is a difficult time for everybody. He is trying to reassure them that Chrysler's restructuring plan, which calls for slashing 13,000 jobs and steep cuts in vehicle production, will ensure the company has a future.

Posted by Frank at 07:44 AM

UAW says 'no opinion' on possible GM-Chrysler deal

DETROIT -- The head of the United Auto Workers Union said today that he had no opinion about a potential takeover of the Chrysler group by General Motors. "I have absolutely no opinion on that at all," Ron Gettelfinger told Detroit radio station WJR in a morning interview. The comments were the first from the UAW chief since word emerged last week that GM had been in talks on a potential acquisition of the struggling Chrysler unit from parent DaimlerChrysler AG.

Posted by Frank at 07:42 AM

Toyota offers incentives for Prius

Demand for hybrid no longer exceeds supply

After watching the Prius hybrid fly out of dealer showrooms the last six years, Toyota has started to nudge consumers with zero-percent financing and lease deals because supply has caught up with demand.

Until recently, most Toyota dealers had waiting lists of two to three months for the fuel-efficient Prius, the most popular gas-electric hybrid model. But at the end of January, dealers had a 30-day supply, or about 10,000 vehicles, based on January sales.

Toyota quietly launched its first incentives on the Prius at the end of last month and has extended the offers until Feb. 28, though it doesn't plan national advertising to promote the program.

Offers include zero-percent interest for 24 months, 2.9% for 36 months, 3.9% for 48 months and 4.9% for 60 months, or a $219 lease for 36 months. Toyota also offers interest rates from 2.9% to 4.9% on the Highlander Hybrid SUV, which has been available with incentives before, as have hybrids from Honda and Ford.

Posted by Frank at 07:41 AM

Kia Motors and Johnson Controls Cooperate on Interior for the New Kia cee'd

Korean-Brand Model With a European Look

BURSCHEID, Germany -- What was particularly important for Kia in creating its new model? To meet the needs of European consumers. With the new cee'd, Kia is, for the first time, launching a car that is designed, produced and sold exclusively in Europe.

The interior was developed by Kia in collaboration with Johnson Control, one of the world's leading suppliers of auto-motive interior systems, electronics and batteries. The scope of products available from the interior systems supplier includes not only seating, but also the door panels, the headliner and the sun visors as well as the floor console. The highlight is the active head restraint, which reduces the risk of whiplash injuries.

As one of the global suppliers for the new Kia Motors plant in Zilina, Slovakia, Johnson Controls is contributing towards the new Kia cee'd with crucial interior products. To ensure that the interior fulfills European requirements in terms of safety, design, craftsmanship, engineers and designers at Kia have been working closely with experts from Johnson Controls to develop this product.

"The experience that we have already gathered when creating an interior for a European medium-sized segment vehicle has flowed into the cee'd," said Dave Cordle, the Platform Director responsible for the project at Johnson Controls. Of particular importance for Kia is the safety of the driver and passengers. This is why the automobile manufacturer decided to include body-driven, active head restraints.

Active head restraints ensure even greater protection The active head restraints in the front seats reduce the risk of whiplash injuries and are mechanically activated by the occupant's pelvis during a rear impact on their vehicle. Integrated into the lower part of the backrest, this mechanism is of particular benefit as this is the point at which the body has maximum contact. Consequently, even small or slightly-built persons can activate the head restraint - in contrast to conventional systems where this is not always possible as the actuators are usually found in the upper backrest.

As far as quality is concerned, drivers and passengers are getting an extremely good deal with the new model. In the upper area of the door panels, for example, Johnson Controls is using In-Mold graining technology with very high precision to achieve a 'Twill' texture look reminiscent of jeans material. This covering process permits narrow radii and minimal grain distortion. To keep every-thing lightweight, natural fibers are used which also improve safety performance in a side impact crash. Kia ordered a wide variety of headliners and floor consoles from Johnson Controls.

Furthermore, with its own range of products, the company has contributed to the entire interior by creating an impression of harmony which fulfills in detail the requirements of the European consumers. "To ensure that we always offer our customers the optimum solutions, our multinational teams in Korea, Germany and Slovakia maintain close communications even after the development phase has been completed," commented Dave Cordle.

Posted by Frank at 07:39 AM

Honda Announces the New Crossroad for the Japanese Market

TOKYO, Japan - February 22, 2007–Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the new Crossroad, an automobile which transcends existing categories by combining the design and functionality of an SUV with the convenient size of a compact car and the 3-row seating and 7-passenger capacity of a minivan.

The new Crossroad will go on sale throughout Japan on Friday, February 23.

The Crossroad was designed as an “active life navigator”—a car that helps people enjoy their active new lifestyles, unbound by conventional thinking.

The square motif of the exterior design conveys a feeling of solid presence and strength, while areas around the center pillars and windows are deeply beveled to achieve a sturdy, robust look.

The interior design features sculpted molding around the instrument panel to achieve a fun, confident feel. The square motif is continued throughout the interior, creating a refined, urban tone.

With its innovative packaging, the Crossroad offers a confident presence and versatile 3-row seating, yet is a breeze to handle around town thanks to an overall length of just 4,285mm. And the distinctive angular design around the front headlights gives the Crossroad an effective minimum turning radius1 at the top of its class2.

The Crossroad comes equipped with either a 1.8-liter or a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine that combines responsive low-to-mid-speed driving performance with outstanding fuel economy. The engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission to deliver nimble performance.

The 4-wheel-drive model is also equipped with Hill-Start Assist function, which temporarily maintains brake pressure after the brake pedal is released when starting on a hill to ensure smoother starts and enhanced ease of use.

Posted by Frank at 07:33 AM

New Porsche Cayenne available from German dealers Saturday

Engines with gasoline direct injection reduce fuel consumption by up to 15 percent

Stuttgart -- The second generation of the sporty all-terrain Cayenne is preparing for launch: the new models will be waiting in the sales rooms of the 86 German Porsche centers from Saturday, February 24, 2007.

Thanks to the newly developed engines with gasoline direct injection, they are distinguished by higher performance combined with lower fuel consumption. In real operating conditions, savings of up 15 percent are possible, and CO2 emissions are also correspondingly lower.

All Cayenne models come with Porsche Stability Management (PSM) featuring brake assist, advanced vehicle stabilization and off-road ABS as standard. The vehicles can also be fitted with the new Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDDC), which limits its roll angle on corners.

As Porsche has already sold more than 150,000 units of the Cayenne's predecessor model, Bernhard Maier, Managing Director of Porsche Deutschland GmbH, is confident that the new Cayenne models will continue this success: "Although our customers have only been able to experience these vehicles through test reports so far, we already have more new orders than for any other model change. We are convinced that the new Cayenne will lend fresh momentum to our business in Germany."

In Germany the basic model costs €51,735 Euros, the more powerful S version costs €66,610 Euros and the premium Cayenne Turbo costs €108,617 Euros (including sales tax).

Posted by Frank at 07:30 AM

10 Ways to Crashproof Your Teen

The single most dangerous thing your offspring will probably ever do is drive a car. Car crashes kill more teens than drugs, suicide, alcohol and guns combined. Here are 10 effective ways to help crashproof your kids:

1. Commit the time to helping them become safer, smarter drivers. Teens typically get 3-6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction in driver education programs, and it takes 30-50 hours of experience just to function well in basic traffic situations. You should plan on at least 50 hours with them over a 6 to 12 month period.

2. Work with your teen in increasingly complex and varied driving environments as they show confidence and competence, in this order: parking lots, residential streets, country roads, freeways and finally, busy urban streets.

3. Teach them the proper response to the following hazardous driving situations: rain, ice, snow, fog, tire blow-out and loss of power steering or brakes.

4. Eliminate or reduce the most dangerous driving distractions. Using a cell phone while driving is the equivalent of having a .08 blood alcohol level. Each teen passenger of a teen driver increases the crash risk by 50%.

5. Teach your teen how to emergency brake and to maintain a 4 second following distance from cars in front of them.

6. Improve their visual scanning skills by teaching them to focus 2 to 3 times further down the road than they normally do, and work to double their peripheral vision.

7. Sign a Crashproof Contract outlining restrictions, privileges and responsibilities associated with their use of a car, with specific rewards and penalties for attaining or violating these agreements.

8. Employ education, sensible restrictions and good role modeling to reduce your teen’s risk of speeding, drinking and becoming a victim of road rage.

9. Put yourself in their shoes. For part of your time driving together, get behind the wheel and have your teen make suggestions and comments about your driving.

10. Instill a defensive driving mindset in your teen, where they expect others to make mistakes and violate traffic laws and are prepared to deal with it when they do.

Timothy C. Smith is a certified driving instructor, licensed SCCA racer, father of three teens and award-winning author of Crashproof Your Kids: Make Your Teen a Safer, Smarter Driver. Visit at www.crashproofyourkids.com.

Posted by Frank at 07:28 AM

February 21, 2007

Maserati Financial Services Books First Deal

Lake Forest Sportscars awarded for originating first deal through Maserati Financial Services

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS -- Maserati Financial Services (MFS), the new captive finance unit recently launched by Maserati North America Inc. and CNH Capital America LLC, celebrated the first deal booked by a Maserati dealer through MFS at Lake Forest Sportcars on Friday.

MFS was announced as the new captive finance company for Maserati dealers throughout the U.S. at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Through MFS, dealers can now offer innovative lease and finance solutions designed exclusively for Maserati customers.

"We're thrilled to honor the first transaction through MFS. Our goal is to provide Maserati dealers with the best possible financing solutions," said Steve Bierman, President, Maserati Financial Services. "This includes more flexibility and the ability for Maserati customers to choose a plan that best fits their needs. Maserati serves an important segment of the auto market for our parent company, Fiat SpA (FIA.MI; NYSE: FIA), and we are uniquely positioned to help them as their line of luxury vehicles grows in sales."

Rick Mancuso, proprietor of Lake Forest Sportcars, a premiere Midwest dealer for the Fiat family of brands, believes having an in house captive finance unit will help streamline sales processes and make the customers' experience commensurate with the Maserati brand.

"With MFS and the new Maserati product range, we now have the strong financial partner and the right product to help us get an edge on our competition and capture the sales increase we've been looking for," Mancuso said. "MFS will help us close more deals because of the convenience and ease of access to state of the art financing solutions."

MFS allows dealers nationwide to run a one-stop-shop for customers. "Before MFS, if customers were interested in financing, we'd have to stop the deal and ask our customers to wait until after we contact the banks," Mancuso said.

"That's not what the Maserati experience is about. We have a lust factor for our cars. Maserati serves an important segment of the auto market and its customers deserve a buying experience designed exclusively around their needs. MFS is enhancing the customer experience and in turn will help us sell more cars."

MFS was made available to Maserati dealers nationwide in November 2006 and today has 100% dealer participation. MFS currently offers retail financing for up to 84 months on new Maseratis and up to 72 months on pre-owned Maseratis. Additionally, MFS will offer flexible lease terms of up to 60 months for all new Maseratis.

"MFS has enabled our dealers to provide their customers with a dedicated source of financial services commensurate with the Maserati brand," said James Selwa, President, Maserati North America. "By providing our customers with more innovative lease and finance solutions and giving them the buying experience they deserve, we are helping strengthen their relationship with the brand."

For more information on Maserati and Maserati Financial Services please visit http://www.maserati.com/ .

Maserati North America
Maserati North America is led by President and CEO James Selwa and is headquartered in Englewood Cliffs, NJ. North America represents roughly 40% of Maserati's total volume. Success in the United States is mirrored globally by Maserati now present in 58 countries on five continents with an overall network of over 259 dealerships. In the main global markets, Maserati directly controls its subsidiaries, including a joint venture in China.

Source: Maserati Financial Services

Posted by Frank at 06:08 PM

Ford Selects Student Entrepreneurs to Compete for $100,000 in Scholarships

Top Five Finalists Named to Participate in the 2nd Annual Ford HBCU Business Classic

NEW YORK -- Ford Motor Company announces the top five finalists to compete in its Second Annual Ford HBCU Business Classic, a business plan competition developed to promote entrepreneurship among students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Students from Howard University, Florida A&M University, Morehouse College, Spelman College and Xavier University will vie for $100,000 in scholarship prizes.

The five finalist teams will convene in Washington, D.C., on March 16, to present their business plans live in front of a panel of prestigious entrepreneurs during the Annual Conference for the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO).

The Ford HBCU Business Classic launched in the fall of 2004 after recognizing a need in the Black business community to educate and develop the next generation of entrepreneurs. The competition was open to HBCU students nationwide, and received business plan submissions from more than 80 percent of the nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities. "We are pleased to join Ford in inspiring the next generation of business leaders," said Lezli Baskerville, NAFEO's President and CEO. "We continue to move our community forward by encouraging education and entrepreneurship in the lives of our young people."

The Ford HBCU Business Classic was designed to offer students the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world entrepreneurial experience. "It is Ford's goal to provide a supportive platform for future business owners," said Marc Perry, multicultural marketing manager for Ford Motor Company. "Their success as entrepreneurs will create jobs and opportunities to empower their communities."

The judges include successful entrepreneurs such as David Bing, chairman of The Bing Group, and George Fraser, best-selling author and CEO of FraserNet, who are returning for their second year as competition judges; Valerie Daniels-Carter, CEO, V&J Holding Co.; Jamie Foster Brown, publisher of Sister2Sister Magazine; Steve Ewing, CEO of Wade Ford; and Bennie Fowler, Ford Vice President of Quality and Advanced Manufacturing Engineering. Darryl W. Dennard, co-host of the Black Enterprise Report, will serve as the event host for this year's Finals competition.

The Grand Prize winning team will receive $35,000 in personal scholarship funds and $15,000 for their HBCU school. The first-place team will receive $20,000 in scholarship funds and $10,000 for their school; the second-place team will receive $15,000 in scholarship funds and $5,000 for their school.

To enter, individuals, or teams of two to five students were asked to submit a 10-page business plan via the Ford HBCU Business Classic Web site at http://www.ford.com/go/hbcu. The plan was required to comprise five key elements: type of business, product service, pricing considerations, target market, competition and general operations. Initial business plans were judged by a panel from SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business," using the following criteria: overall presentation, its viability and overall benefit to the community. SCORE narrowed the competition down to the five teams that were chosen to advance to the finals. Ford also provided all applicants with a free online subscription to DiversityInc, which served as a media partner for the Ford HBCU Business Classic.

Commitment to Education

For more than 40 years, Ford Motor Company has been a major supporter of the hopes and dreams of HBCU students. In the last six years alone, Ford has donated over $10 million to Black colleges and universities.

FORD HBCU BUSINESS CLASSIC FINALISTS (In alphabetical order by college)

College: Howard University, Washington, D.C.
Company: B.E.N.A.B., INC. -- Makes college education more affordable by
providing a service that gives students the opportunity to rent
the textbooks required for classes.
Team: Alibia Henry, Kristan Crawley, Jacqulyne Bell, Shavon Comfort

College: Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, FL
Company: Venom Innovations, LLC -- Employs new technology to provide
innovative products that will improve the quality of life for
everyday people.
Team: Deliena Stone, Emerson Naylor, Evan Anderson, Alvin Hicks,
Charla Johnson

College: Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
Company: The Dream Group, LLC -- Provides HBCU students with an
opportunity to learn skills to assist them in getting into top
Graduate schools and excel in corporate America.
Team: Marcus N. Daniels, Stanley I. Onuoha, Philip D. Reeves

College: Spelman/Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
Company: Afro-lutions Magazine, LLC -- Provides a global campus
publication
that aspires to bridge cultural and experiential gaps between
members of the Diaspora throughout the world.
Team: Barbara Furlow, Sanpha Kargbo

College: Xavier University of New Orleans-New Orleans, LA
Company: One Source Realty, LLC -- Offers affordable housing for renters
and home buyers in the New Orleans area, post-Katrina.
Team: Brandon Leach, Johnnie R. Wilson III, Jovan Smith, Brenton
Combre

Source: Ford Motor Company

Posted by Frank at 06:05 PM

Toyota is speeding up the evolution of hybrid technology

As the automotive hybrid technology leader, Toyota is taking the next step in hybrid advancements -- high performance. After much research and development, Toyota has developed two hybrid concept vehicles that deliver the efficiency of hybrid technology in a high-performance package.

The power trip begins with the Highlander Hybrid. Through collaboration with BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems, Toyota created the world’s first hybrid turbocharged SUV, which debuted at the SEMA show in November. With this creation, Toyota has expanded the boundaries of what a hybrid can be, and demonstrated the versatility of the Hybrid Synergy Drive® system.

The system highlights the feasibility of forced induction in a hybrid vehicle. Boost is provided by an AirWerksTM hybrid turbocharger developed specifically for this application, and features a forged billet compressor wheel, a ni-resist turbine housing, and a water-cooled bearing housing to increase longevity. Early testing of the Highlander Hybrid Turbo has shown that vehicle power has increased by close to 20 percent, or 305 hybrid system net horsepower.

This exploratory collaboration will no doubt contribute to the goal of creating a hybrid for performance enthusiasts. But SUVs are only the half of it.

Picture the next sports car of the 21st century. What comes to mind? That’s exactly what inspired Toyota’s latest concept -- the FT-HS hybrid sports concept.

The FT-HS, which debuted at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, is the epitome of the next generation of sports cars. Brainchild of Calty, Toyota’s North American-based research and design center, as well as the Advanced Product Strategy Group, the FT-HS combined what we all love about the sports car with a hybrid powertrain.

“Drivers today are not satisfied with cars that are simply fast,” states Kevin Hunter, vice president of Calty Design Research. “In addition to driving enjoyment, today’s drivers are concerned about safety, ecology and social responsibility.”

Going from zero to 60 mph in four seconds is not a feat usually associated with hybrid vehicles. Powered by a 400-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine, the FT-HS marries low emissions with superior efficiency and performance. What more could you ask for in a sports car?

One look at the FT-HS and “attainable” is the last thing that comes to mind. Freeform geometry and a minimalist style produce a lightweight look, while a rear-wheel drive and front engine handle the performance. Yet perhaps the most surprising feature of all? Its mid-level pricing. The FT-HS is an “attainable exotic” with 21st-century performance.

Other noteworthy aspects include seating for four that converts to seating for two when the roof retracts and a telescoping hubless steering wheel, which enhances driver focus in the cockpit.

The FT-HS is an overachiever’s answer to the question, “What is a suitable sports car for the 21st century?” Toyota takes another giant leap forward in the hybrid movement.

Posted by Frank at 06:00 PM

Some Fear Billboards Distract Drivers

When officials in this Minneapolis suburb didn't like the two eye-popping digital billboards that Clear Channel erected along the freeway, they pulled the plug. They had the power company cut off the electricity after just a few days.

That move in December sparked a court fight that local governments and the advertising industry alike are watching as digital billboards with fast-changing messages become more prevalent.

The glowing signs offer advertisers a tantalizing new means of cutting through the urban clutter. But some officials worry that the bright billboards, which display a new image every few seconds, are another dangerous distraction for drivers, many of whom are already multitasking behind the wheel.

"If you see a big bright screen and it's flipping its image like a computer, that's going to pull your eyes off the road for a couple seconds," said Bill Steinbicker, a retired marketing executive who supports his city's fight against Clear Channel, the nation's biggest outdoor-advertising company.

Clear Channel has installed eight digital billboards in the Twin Cities and similar numbers in Las Vegas, Cleveland, Tampa, Fla., Milwaukee and Albuquerque, N.M. Other outdoor advertising companies are also incorporating more digital billboards.

Posted by Frank at 05:58 PM

2nd Lawsuit Filed in Brandy Fatal Crash

A second wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against actress-singer Brandy in a December freeway crash.

On Jan. 30, a $50 million lawsuit claimed Brandy was driving recklessly when her sport utility vehicle struck the back of a Honda driven by Awatef Aboudihaj, 38. The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on behalf of her parents, Aboudihaj Ahmed and Labridi Zohra, who reside in Morocco.

Awatef Aboudihaj was killed and her two sons, Mrwan Mohamed, 14, and Kareem Mohamed, 10, were injured in the Dec. 30 accident on the San Diego Freeway.

The latest lawsuit was filed Feb. 8 by attorney Paul N. Philips on behalf of the two boys. It said unspecified injuries to the children will likely cause some permanent disability. Damages will be determined at trial, the lawsuit said.

"The accident was a terrible tragedy, and Brandy's heart goes out to Awatef Aboudihaj's family. But for legal reasons we cannot comment on this lawsuit," the singer's spokesman, Allan Mayer, said in an earlier statement.

Posted by Frank at 05:58 PM

Woman who threw ice gets probation

Judge decides against prison; woman was mad at driver she said cut her off

STAFFORD, Va. - A mother of three who threw a cup of ice into a car that cut her off on a highway was spared a two-year prison term Wednesday.

Jessica Hall, 25, of Jacksonville, N.C., instead was sentenced to probation for the offense — dubbed the "McMissile" case because she threw a McDonald's cup filled with ice.

A jury last month found her guilty of maliciously throwing a missile into an occupied vehicle, a felony in Virginia with a minimum sentence of two years in prison.

"The facts of this case ... suggest that the sentence in this case should be reduced," Stafford Circuit Judge Frank Hoss Jr. told Hall, who thanked the judge and cried.

Hall, who has been jailed since Jan. 4, also will have to pay fines and court costs related to three other charges, including reckless driving and assault. As a condition of her sentencing, she must remain on good behavior for five years.

Posted by Frank at 01:57 PM

Buy this car or I'll shoot!

Being a used-car dealer can sometimes be dangerous. Several recent incidents in the news, ranging from dealers turning the tables on would-be robbers by pulling guns themselves, to dealers being shot and even killed, prove that.

Last November, Powell, Tenn., dealer Greg “Lumpy” Lambert also had a close encounter with an armed man.
Lambert describes himself as a strong supporter of the Second Amendment's right to bear arms.

He is also a county commissioner in Knox County, Tenn. His first campaign fund-raiser involved supporters shooting objects to bits with a machine gun.

Posted by Frank at 01:32 PM

Saab 9-3 Convertible Gets 'Iced'

JUKKASJÄRVI, SWEDEN – Saab customers, VIP guests and dealers from all over the world are being greeted with an ‘iced’ 9-3 Convertible when they arrive for the Saab Ice Experience event at Sweden’s world famous ICEHOTEL.

Saab broke the ice, more than 20 years ago, when it pioneered the concept of an open-top car providing practical, year-round transport. So it was clearly a cool idea to ‘freeze frame’ the latest Saab 9-3 Convertible in a garage made from ice at the hotel, near Jukkasjärvi in northern Sweden, 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle.

Visible at night from a kilometer away, the icy reflections of the convertible’s illuminated bright blue paintwork give arriving guests an automotive interpretation of the Northern Lights. The installation, added to this year’s version of the ICEHOTEL, is made from 60 ice blocks, weighing 30 tons, all harvested from the nearby Torne River, one of Europe’s purest.

Saab is celebrating its 60 years of automotive manufacturing this year and the 9-3 Convertible model was chosen to light up the sky. About 500 guests will attend the event, which finishes on March 18, although test-driving will not include the ice-bound convertible.

“Snow and ice are core elements of Scandinavian nature, so it was a very natural step for us to adopt this theme for our Convertible, the original car for all seasons.” says Marie Larsson, Saab event project manager.

“ Sweden also has a strong tradition for environmental care. For example, the ice used to build this hotel is a renewable resource that is recycled each year when it melts and returns to the river. In a similar way, our Saab BioPower engines are able to run on bioethanol, a renewable fuel with a greatly reduced CO 2 impact.”

Posted by Frank at 01:28 PM

Car museum exhibiting at NY Auto Show

For the 1st time ever the LeMay Museum will display over one dozen gorgeous, museum quality classic vehicles at the 2007 New York International Auto Show.

The LeMay Museum, known as “America’s Car Museum”, has one of the largest amassed privately owned collection of automobiles, motorcycles, trucks and other vehicles and related memorabilia. At one point it was in excess of 3,000 vehicles!

Assuming residence inside the NY Auto Show for one weekend only, from April 6 – 8, 2007. This display will be the preeminent showcase for some of the world’s most extraordinary vehicles. You will have to see it to believe it!

Posted by Frank at 01:14 PM

Survey: SUvs still most popular body style

CHICAGO -- Despite a slowdown in SUV sales over the past several years as a result of higher gas prices, 21 percent of consumers who plan to buy a car in 2007 intend to purchase an SUV or crossover vehicle, according to a recent Cars.com survey.*

Roughly 24 percent of survey respondents said they will buy a new or used car this year, and no body style was more popular than SUVs and crossovers. Next were small sedans, at more than 19 percent; large sedans, 11 percent; compact cars, 8 percent; pickup trucks, 7 percent; and hybrid cars, 6 percent. A large portion of consumers -- 28 percent -- remain undecided as to what type of car they will buy.

"Manufacturers are doing a good job of making SUVs and crossover vehicles more fuel-efficient, which will be more attractive to consumers," said Patrick Olsen, managing editor of Cars.com. "However, high gas prices will still be a deciding factor for many undecided shoppers, especially if prices climb again as they typically do in the summer months."

Fuel-efficiency was the second most important factor for shoppers when it came to choosing a car, behind price. Fuel-efficiency was followed by safety, size and body style in order of importance to consumers.

* The survey was conducted online for Cars.com by Impulse Research Inc., with a random sample of 1,011 men and women representing a cross-section of the U.S. population. The overall sampling error for this survey is plus or minus 3% at a 95% level of confidence.

Posted by Frank at 12:50 PM

Nissan not interested in Chrysler

TOKYO - The Renault-Nissan auto alliance is uninterested in buying DaimlerChrysler's money-losing Chrysler division, despite exploring a North American partnership last year, a Nissan official said Wednesday.

Tokyo-based Nissan, 44 percent owned by Renault SA of France, is always open to new partnerships, but not right now because it is focused on its own financial woes, spokeswoman Madoka Soma said.

Carlos Ghosn, head of both automakers, entered unsuccessful partnership talks with Detroit-based General Motors Corp. last year and had said a North American ally would be a good balance for the company.

Posted by Frank at 11:59 AM

Eight Kia Models Given 'Best Bet' Distinction

Record Number of Kia Vehicles Awarded Prestigious Honor Based on Safety and Performance

IRVINE, Calif. -- Recently honored with MotorWeek's "Best Minivan" award, the Kia Sedona is now being given The Car Book 2007's "Best Bet" distinction, along with seven other Kia vehicles: Rio, Rio5, Spectra, Spectra5, Optima, Sportage and Sorento. Rio and Optima were both recipients of the award in 2006, however this is the first time eight different models in the 11-vehicle Kia lineup have received the distinguished accolade.

"Obviously we are extremely thrilled and proud to have eight vehicles from our line-up be distinguished as "Best Bets" by The Car Book," said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Since this distinction is only given to vehicles that have the safety and performance needs of consumers in mind, we consider it a true testament to Kia's commitment to providing only the highest quality vehicles to customers."

The Car Book 2007 is an updated and expanded guide to buying a new 2007 car, van, truck or SUV. It presents the latest safety ratings, dealer prices, fuel economy, insurance premiums, maintenance costs, tires, as well as a chart of state lemon laws, and is published in cooperation with the Center for Auto Safety, the nation's leading auto safety advocacy group.

The Car Book's "Best Bet" distinction, given annually, is based on objective information collected from both government and independent sources that evaluate the safety and performance needs of the American consumer. Only cars that have ratings in all of the key Car Book categories -- safety features, fuel economy, rollover, overall maintenance and repair costs, warranties, insurance costs, and complaints, with the greatest emphasis placed on crash test performance and complaints -- are considered as potential "Best Bets."

"The Car Book has long been the consumer's best guide to smart and sensible car buying," said Jack Gillis of The Car Book. "We appreciate the fact that Kia continues to make a significant contribution to improving the market choices for the American car buyer."

Kia Motors America -- the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea -- offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For more information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

Source: Kia Motors America

Posted by Frank at 11:55 AM

Ford engineers' ideas getting to market faster

DEARBORN -- The distance between a Ford engineer's bright idea and a customer's vehicle is shrinking.

With competition and customer expectation wound tighter than ever before, the "what if" people in Ford Research and Advanced Engineering are now "can do."

So, inflatable seat belts were off the drawing boards and into the public spotlight during the recent North American International Auto Show. Collision avoidance devices have been built into the Volvo S80 in 2006. And through the emerging science of nanotechnology, Ford research may one day build efficient hydrogen storage, develop battery technologies and create other automotive applications.

"Getting to the starting line isn't good enough," says Gerhard Schmidt, vice president of Ford Research and Advanced Engineering.

"I think there's a growing importance to bring new technologies and innovations into our products. We need to win the race and innovation will be the differentiator."

Comprised of roughly 1,300 scientists, engineers and developers originating from more than 55 different countries, Research and Advanced Engineering is a global endeavor that is systemically networked among all Ford Motor Company brands and regions -- both in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. By sharing ideas and technology engineers from across Ford's global footprint are able to ensure that the best and most advanced technology reaches customers as quickly as possible.

Engineers envision the future and see what is possible. Whether it is alternative fuels, a new safety design that protects passengers better than ever before, or a new level of occupant comfort in a Ford-made vehicle, their innovations predict trends and affect customers and products all over the globe.

Even during recent tough times, their work remains integral to the company.

Mark Fields, president, The Americas, and architect of Ford's Way Forward turnaround plan has said, "Big innovations are the key to turning around Ford Motor Company."

"Our goal is not just to compete, but to change the basis of competition by coming out with great innovations -- the kind that are so relevant to the lives of their users they bring new customers to market," Fields said.

At Ford's Research and Advanced Engineering, the work engineers do impacts all aspects of the company's cars and trucks, including safety, emissions, fuel economy, materials, comfort and convenience, power and performance.

"We usually start the process by looking at what is going on outside the company with our customer base," says Richard Parry-Jones, Ford's group vice president, chief technical officer. "It's a good opportunity to put our research work in context because it summarizes where society is looking for technical solutions from companies like us."

"Just as the Model T revolutionized the world, so too will the technologies being created by the R&A team," says by Dr. Schmidt.

"From next generation seat belt designs to advanced manufacturing techniques, from clean diesel to fuel cell vehicles, the technologies we develop symbolize the future of transportation and are a result of teamwork among our scientists, engineers and customers to deliver the future today."

Advanced engineers pursue three specific areas of research: safety, sustainability, and design.

* Ford's commitment to safety features on vehicles include such innovations as child rear door locks in 1955 to recent innovations as AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control. The R&A team looks at all aspects of safety -- for the driver, the passengers, the family in the other vehicle, for pedestrians and Ford employees. Some of their new technologies include Jaguar’s XK Pedestrian Safety System, a side impact dummy for global use, accident avoidance sensors, blind spot monitoring and an inflatable seat belt.
* Ford Motor Company has long said that sustainability, the effective use of environmental and social, as well as economic capital, is essential to its future success. The R&A group is developing a range of alternative technologies that address such issues as climate change, energy security, safety, congestion, noise and the use of renewable resources and materials.
* In addition to safety and sustainability, R&A works on what makes Ford vehicles functional, reliable and fun to drive. From the electrical architecture to seat engineering, they focus many projects on how to improve the customer's vehicle experience.

In total, R&A accounts for more than one-third of the patents and invention disclosures at Ford in any given year. In 2006 alone, R&A was granted nearly 200 patents, coupled with a number of patent applications, invention disclosures, scientific papers and other research products.

The North American Ford R&A team is housed at the Ford Research and Innovation Center (RIC) in Dearborn, a premier technological and applied science facility in the automotive industry. The RIC features many industry-leading technologies and labs, such as the VIRTTEX, short for VIRtual Test Track Experiment, one of the world’s most advanced driving simulators and the Spin Torsional Laboratory, where engineers use a “virtual” engine to determine NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) vehicle characteristics.

While the majority of their work takes place at the RIC, there are also facilities and staff conducting research around the world. For example, the Ford Forschungszentrum Aachen in Aachen, Germany, serves as RIC’s center in Europe and is leading the development of many technologies, such as clean diesels.

Posted by Frank at 11:40 AM

Female Racing Fans Now Have Own Forum to Discuss Chewing Tobacco Etiquette

New Online Community Becomes the Place for to Explore, Enjoy and Impact the World of Auto Racing

GREENSBORO -- Responding to the recognized fact that approximately 40 % of the estimated 75 million NASCAR fans are women, Fast-Track Fan LLC announces today the launch of HerRacing.com (www.herracing.com), directed by NASCAR Busch Series Driver, Kim Crosby.

HerRacing.com is a web-based Fan Club that serves as an online community where women can share their love for auto racing, support women wanting to succeed in auto racing careers, and pursue their zest for an engaging and enriched life.

To help women achieve these three goals, this membership-only online community will include:

* A constant flow of timely articles organized into the nine Interest
Areas that women care about the most.

* A Discussion Forum where members can interact with each other about
Interest Area topics, join together to support women in racing, plan
online and local area activities, and engage in collaborative projects
that they and other members initiate.

* A RSS News Feed that members can access from a browser Toolbar that
brings them daily auto racing news, movie reviews, and updates on fan
club activities and events.

Source: Fast-Track Fan LLC

Posted by Frank at 11:35 AM

New Alternative Fuel Directory Features Over 2200 E85 and Biodiesel Retail Locations Nationwide

WHEATON, Ill. -- USA Energy Independence Publications announces the first ever directory covering both E85 Ethanol Fuel and Biodiesel Fuel retail stations nationwide. Designed to help the Flex Fuel Vehicle (FFV)-vehicle and diesel-powered vehicle owners find local retail outlets for these fuels, the directory also features a buyers guide for 2007 and earlier model Flex Fuel vehicles.

The Directory covers over 2200 retail locations nationwide, listed by state and city. Each entry has the fuel station's address and phone, hours of operation, phone number and types of payment options available.

Updated quarterly, the 70 plus page directory is available as a single copy sale for $19.95 or as a subscription with discounts for yearly subscribers.

According to CEO Bill Wolski, the Directory finally provides motorists with a tool that they can use to find E85 Ethanol in their area. For truck drivers and owners of passenger cars with diesel engines, the directory also includes BioDiesel retail fuel locations.

Every FFV automobile and diesel- powered vehicle should carry one of these directories in its glove compartment, according to Wolski. It's one way to make sure that motorists and truckers are taking advantage of their vehicle's flex fuel capability as often as they can, he said.

The directory also provides background information on E85 Ethanol, BioDiesel and Hydrogen Fuel cells and explains their benefits and use in layman's terms.

Copies of the Directory may be ordered from USA Energy Independence Publications, 1776 S Naperville Rd. Ste 201A, Wheaton, IL 60187 Or by calling 630-221-1778. Most credit cards accepted.

Source: USA Energy Independence Publications

Posted by Frank at 11:30 AM

'Transformers' and GM Form Power Partnership

Live-Action Movie's 'Heroes' Attend 6th Annual GM Ten Event; DreamWorks/Paramount Film Slated to Debut July 4

LOS ANGELES- Four new movie stars - "Bumblebee," "Autobot Jazz," "Autobot Ratchet" and "Ironhide" - from DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures,' in association with Hasbro's, forthcoming July 4th action-adventure release, "Transformers," were introduced this evening by General Motors Corp. as it hosted its sixth annual "ten" pre-Oscar fashion event at Paramount Pictures in Hollywood.

"Bumblebee" changes from the classic Chevrolet Camaro, and is a central character in the saga of aliens who take mechanical forms when on Earth. "Autobot Jazz" converts from a Pontiac Solstice in a hardtop format. A Hummer H2, modified as a rescue vehicle, changes into "Autobot Ratchet," and "Ironhide" changes from a GMC TopKick medium-duty truck. They all star in this summer's live-action blockbuster, "Transformers," from DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures, in association with Hasbro, which will premiere July 4.

Buzz about the roles that these vehicles play in the movie has been spreading since a quick glimpse of the new Camaro was spotted in Paramount's newest "Transformers" trailer, which began appearing in theaters on Dec. 20, 2006. This clip, which is currently the most-viewed movie trailer on Yahoo!, also contains images of the Solstice, H2 and TopKick for fans who were quick enough to have freeze-framed it.

"'Transformers' is a compelling project and offers us a global platform for marketing GM products and building our brands," said Mike Jackson, GM North America vice president, marketing and advertising. "It represents the perfect intersection of entertainment, marketing and design."

"The first time I saw the new Camaro, while touring the GM Design Center, I knew immediately that it would be the perfect 'Bumblebee,'" said Michael Bay, the film's Director. He continued, "It's got beautiful lines and a classic, timeless look. There were no other cars that came even close. I have had a great working relationship with GM for many years and am psyched to be working with them on 'Transformers.'"

Gerry Rich, President of Worldwide Marketing at Paramount Pictures, added, "We are thrilled to be working with GM on this incredible and action-packed film. Having integrated the cars as characters in the film is truly an innovative concept that will help eventize this exciting 4th of July tentpole film."

GM will roll out a fully integrated marketing and promotional effort around the film in the near future, including a major Chevrolet promotion, according to Jackson.

Posted by Frank at 11:27 AM

Volvo reveals unsung hereoes

Move over, "American Idol." Results are in from an America voting tally that really counts. For the past six months, the American public has been voting to decide the country’s favorite hometown heroes in the 5th Annual Volvo for life Awards.

After counting 676,903 votes, the top three heroes in the categories of Safety, Environment and Quality of Life can be revealed. Heroes rising to the top of the voting pool include a courageous African refugee and mother of nine children who created an international organization to help refugees, a widow who bravely turned her own tragedy into a personal mission for safe teenage driving and a 15-year-old cancer survivor who raises money for cancer research while helping the planet by driving an ink cartridge recycling initiative.

The Volvo for life Awards (www.volvoforlifeawards.com) is the largest-ever national search for and celebration of everyday heroes, with Volvo Cars of North America providing $1 million in awards and contributions in their honor.

Now, the Volvo for life Awards' distinguished panel of judges -- including Hank Aaron, Sen. Bill Bradley, Caroline Kennedy, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Val Kilmer, Maya Lin, Paul Newman, Dr. Sally Ride and previous grand award winners -- will review the finalists' nominations to select the program's three category winners. Volvo will then select a grand award winner who will receive a new Volvo every three years for life and the distinction of being named " America's Greatest Hometown Hero."

The program, launched in August 2006, called for individuals nationwide to visit www.volvoforlifeawards.com and vote for their favorite unsung hometown hero. America selected the following heroes to be the finalists:

Safety:

* Kendall Phills of Charlotte, N.C., lost her former NBA star husband in a nationally publicized street racing accident in 2000. Phills is now a powerful advocate for safe driving and with her initiative, "Be Safe-Drive Smart," she takes her husband's wrecked car on tour to educate North Carolina teens about dangerous driving habits.
* After fleeing the Middle East to protect herself and her children from her abusive husband, Paula Lucas of Portland, Ore., started an organization to help American women abroad escape abusive relationships.
* Rosamond Carr, of South Orange, N.J., opened an orphanage to care for young victims of Rwandan genocide. The Imbabazi Orphanage is currently home to 124 children. Carr passed away on Sept. 29, 2006, but her legacy lives on in the hundreds of children she rescued at the orphanage.

Quality of Life:

* Rev. Faith Fowler of Detroit runs a variety of programs that benefit the local homeless, mentally ill and mentally impaired populations in her inner-city neighborhood.
* Laura Moore of Lilburn, Ga., founded the Dream House, a transitional foster home to provide loving care for medically fragile children, while recruiting and training foster parents to take care of them.
* Rose Mapendo of Peoria, Ariz., an African refugee and mother of nine children, established Mapendo International, a humanitarian aid organization that works with the U.S. Department of State and the United Nations to rescue and protect other African refugees.

Environment:

* Eli Kahn, a 15 year-old cancer survivor from Baltimore established a program that asks businesses, non-profits, individuals and educational organizations to recycle used ink jet and laser printer cartridges. All recycling proceeds go to pediatric oncology research at Johns Hopkins.
* Robina Suwol, a Van Nuys, Calif. mom, advocates for policies to protect school children from harmful chemicals.
* Bonnie Swanson, an Indian River County School system principal in Vero Beach, Fla., led her nine- and ten-year-old students to raise money for and create a local, permanent nature reserve.

Volvo will fly the three category winners to New York to be honored at the world famous Cipriani’s during the Volvo for life Awards ceremony on April 5. At the event, Volvo and program judges will present a short film documenting each winner and present him or her with a $50,000 contribution to the charity of his or her choice. In addition, they will announce the program’s grand winner, who will receive a new Volvo car every three years for the rest of his or her life and will be named " America's Greatest Hometown Hero." The remaining six finalists will receive donations of $25,000 to the charities of their choice.

Top child heroes also are being judged for the third annual Alexandra Scott Butterfly Award. The award is in honor of Alexandra Scott, a Volvo for life Awards winner from Wynnewood, Pa. who, before passing away at age 8 from cancer, raised more than $1 million for pediatric cancer research through lemonade sales and other fundraising activities. Alexandra's parents will select the winner, who will receive a $25,000 charitable contribution and special recognition at the awards ceremony.

The 5th Annual Volvo for life Awards will be hosted by actor Benjamin Bratt and will feature musical performances by various artists. During the ceremony, Volvo will also present a Volvo for life Friendship Award and $25,000 to a buddy pair for their friendship and their contribution to Best Buddies. Visit www.volvoforlifeawards.com for more information on the Volvo for life Awards and to view hundreds of hero stories, including this year's finalists.

Posted by Frank at 11:24 AM

Automotive Trade Policy Council Statement on Bank of Japan's Decision to Raise Interest Rates

WASHINGTON -- The following statement was released today by the Automotive Trade Policy Council on the Bank of Japan's decision to raise interest rates:

"The decision by the Bank of Japan to raise interest rates today from the low rates it has maintained for years is a small but welcome first step toward ending its reliance on subsidized exports from its misaligned currency.

"We encourage the Japanese government to take additional action to rebalance its misaligned currency. American businesses and workers are the victims of Japan's policy of maintaining a misaligned and undervalued yen.

"Growing sectors of the U.S. business community can no longer accept the closing of U.S. manufacturing facilities and loss of American jobs resulting from Japan's trade-distorting policy. With Japan's GDP growth rate now exceeding 4%, there is simply no reason for Japan to hesitate in taking bold and necessary domestic reforms, and to stop the practice of exporting its economic problems to its trading partners by undervaluing its currency."

The Automotive Trade Policy Council, Inc. (ATPC) is a Washington, D.C.- based non profit trade association that represents the common international economic, trade and investment interests of its member companies: DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company and General Motors Corporation.

Source: Automotive Trade Policy Council

Posted by Frank at 11:17 AM

FedEx Express Deploys Cleaner, Fuel-Saving Vehicles in Denver

Denver to Receive Four FedEx Express Hybrid Electric Delivery Trucks

Hybrids Cut Pollution 90% Compared to Conventional Trucks

DENVER -- FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp., today introduced four hybrid electric medium-duty trucks into service in the Denver metropolitan area. Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) joined FedEx to unveil the vehicles at a press conference at a FedEx Express facility in downtown Denver.

Salazar, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, is a leading voice in the U. S. Senate calling for alternative energy solutions to reduce dependence on foreign oil, enhance national security, protect land and water resources, and create new jobs throughout America.

"The FedEx hybrid electric truck is an excellent example of how one company can take steps to improve our air quality while reducing dependence on foreign oil," said Salazar. "I, along with a bipartisan group of my Senate colleagues, am championing efforts that will provide incentives for American automobile manufacturers and businesses to produce and use more hybrid and flex-fuel vehicles. I applaud FedEx for taking a leadership role in investing in this technology that delivers cleaner air in our community."

"The introduction of these hybrid vehicles in Denver is another milestone in our ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship," said John Formisano, vice president of Global Vehicles, FedEx Express. "FedEx thanks Sen. Salazar for his leadership, and we are hopeful that his efforts will help spur manufacturing in the hybrid sector to bring down costs and allow FedEx to introduce more of these outstanding vehicles in cities across Colorado and the country."

The FedEx Express hybrid, developed in cooperation with Environmental Defense and Eaton Corp., will deliver cleaner and healthier air and reduce climate change impacts. This new vehicle:

* Decreases soot by 96 percent and smog causing emissions by 65 percent
* Travels 57 percent farther on a gallon of fuel, reducing fuel costs by over a third
* Operates and performs like a conventional FedEx Express medium duty vehicle

The introduction of the FedEx Express hybrid vehicles is part of an innovative alliance that began in 2000 between FedEx and Environmental Defense to create the next generation of cleaner, more fuel-efficient delivery trucks. FedEx became the first company to begin converting its medium duty truck fleet to hybrid vehicles for commercial use.

Including Denver, FedEx operates a total 93 hybrid vehicles in cities such as New York, Tampa, Sacramento and Washington, D.C.

Source: FedEx Express

Posted by Frank at 10:06 AM

Audi answers diesel question, What is Bluetec? on new site

Audi has set up a new website dedicated to answering questions about diesel technology on a new website, including tech stuff, environmental stuff and plain old stuff to do with cars, which is how they view diesel over there. For now, the snwer to the qustion ...

... What is Bluetec?

Bluetec is now the name standard for clean diesel technology, driven by a cooperative agreement between Audi, DaimlerChrysler and Volkswagen designed to identify diesel technologies that meet 50-state clean diesel requirements for the U.S. market. Bluetec refers to a suite of emissions technologies that focus on reducing particulates and NoX output to help diesels meet the most stringent California regulations and thus be saleable in all 50 states.

Under this agreement, Audi and VW, and DaimlerChrysler will pursue individual technology solutions and unique powertrain configurations. Audi will continue to provide its TDI technology on U.S. models like the Audi Q7 meeting strict 2008 emissions standards. Separately, Mercedes and Jeep plan to introduce diesels that will carry the Bluetec badge.

The cooperation will give the Bluetec name greater exposure in the U.S. market, helping consumers to identify diesel technologies with the highest emissions standards as well as superior acceleration characteristics, and low fuel consumption.

Posted by Frank at 07:48 AM

Scion going direct with new models

SCION WILL ROLL OUT A new version of its xB vehicle in late April and a new car, xD, this summer.

The Toyota division this month is launching a series of four- to-five-minute Webisodes introducing Scion's stable of racers and aimed at import drag-racing enthusiasts. Click here to see a short version of the films.

While Scion isn't promoting them widely beyond the site, Sheila Swanson, automotive promotions manager for Scion, says they may use the race cars in other marketing because "they don't look like typical drag racers. They look like great cars, and they photograph very well."

"Our goals are to appeal to people who are very into racing and to introduce new people to racing, especially younger consumers," she says.

And, she adds, import-car racing intersects with the much larger boom in after-market accessorizing, an essential pillar of the Scion marketing program when the division launched in 2004. "You have people just looking to do appearance modifications to cars, but there is a large core as well looking to do performance modifications ... as a part of 'tuning,' racing has always been a part of car culture."

To support the forthcoming redux of xB, the new xD and the entire lineup, Scion will launch three national ride and drive programs, visiting 96 cities this year: first, a six- to-eight-week program launching in May; another tour in August, followed by a full-line road show that will run through November.

Posted by Frank at 07:42 AM

Tax Time Complicated for Hybrid Owners

With April 15th quickly approaching, hybrid owners may be able to recoup some of the cost of their vehicle when they file their 2006 federal taxes. USA Today reports that taxpayers who bought a hybrid vehicle in 2006 are eligible for a tax credit worth up to $3,150.

The amount of the tax credit depends on the vehicle and when it was purchased. Form 8910, available at www.irs.gov helps taxpayers determine the size of their credit, by calculating fuel economy and lifetime fuel savings.

The credit ranges from $250 for a Chevrolet Silverado hybrid pickup to $3,150 for a Toyota Prius. The tax credit begins to phase out after an automaker has sold 60,000 hybrids, so some taxpayers who bought a Toyota Prius last year won't be eligible for the full credit.

In addition to the federal tax credits, some states offer incentives for hybrid owners, including free parking to unrestricted access to HOV lanes. If you're subject to the alternative minimum tax, these may be the only breaks you'll get. Taxpayers who owe the AMT can't use the credit to reduce their federal tax bill.

Posted by Frank at 07:40 AM

Zipcar Hosts 'Drive-In, Don't Drive Out' Event to Take Clunkers and Gas Guzzlers Off Chicago Streets

Chicagoans Invited to Watch 'An Inconvenient Truth' and Donate 'Inconvenient Cars' to Cars for Kids, Benefiting Children's Memorial Hospital

CHICAGO -- Zipcar, the world's largest car sharing service, today announced that it will host the first "Drive-In, Don't Drive Out" event to take old cars, and the pollution they cause, off the streets of Chicago. The event will be held on Monday, Feb. 26 at 7:00 pm at the historic Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport.

Chicagoans will be able to "Drive-In" their old clunkers and donate them to Cars for Kids, a charity of Children's Memorial Hospital, and enjoy a free screening of "An Inconvenient Truth," with an opening speech from Chicago's leading authority on the city's green initiatives, Sadhu Johnston, the City of Chicago Commissioner of the Department of the Environment.

The event kicks off a three month long partnership between Zipcar and Cars for Kids to encourage Chicagoans to donate their old vehicles and rely on more environmentally friendly modes of transport, including public transit and car sharing.

In addition to a $500 tax credit given by the State, the first five Chicagoans to confirm vehicle donation will receive an additional $500 cash, a lifetime Zipcar membership and $500 in driving credits, a package totaling more than $2,000. All other people who register to donate a car by June 1, 2007 will receive a lifetime Zipcar membership and $250 in free driving credits courtesy of Zipcar as a reward for their civic duty.

"The sheer number of cars in a large city like Chicago cause parking, traffic and environmental challenges," said Sadhu Johnston, the City of Chicago Commissioner of the Department of the Environment. "This event is just one more way car sharing is taking cars off the streets of Chicago, helping prevent pollution and reducing fuel consumption and congestion."

In a recent survey of Zipcar members by a governmental agency, approximately 40 percent reported getting rid of their privately owned vehicle or stopping a purchasing decision once joining the service. With more than 85,000 members worldwide, Zipcar conservatively estimates that it has taken approximately 34,000 cars off city streets, freeing up parking spaces and decreasing traffic.

"There are tens of thousands of car owners in Chicago that should strongly consider being car sharers," said Scott Griffith, CEO of Zipcar. "We have watched how the shift from car owner to car sharer sparks a dramatic and lasting behavioral change. When using a car includes making a reservation and paying by the use our members make smarter choices about how and when they use a vehicle. As a result, they drive fewer miles, make fewer trips by auto, increase their public transit use, walk and bike more often and best of all save money!"

The night after the Academy Awards, people are invited to attend this free "Drive-In, Don't Drive Out" event (car donation not required), watch a screening of Al Gore's nominated film "An Inconvenient Truth," and learn about building a sustainable and green Chicago from the Commissioner of the Department of the Environment, Sadhu Johnston. Those wishing to attend should rsvp to rsvp@zipcar.com with their name, number of attendees, and whether they plan to register to donate a vehicle.

Source: Zipcar Inc.

Posted by Frank at 07:38 AM

Robotic cars' next test: navigating urban jungle

Unmanned Stanford auto in contest about intersections, right of way

SAN FRANCISCO - In what sounds like a science fair project on steroids, engineers at Stanford University plan to have an unmanned robot car ready to navigate urban traffic in less than a year.

The car, a 2006 Volkswagen Passat wagon dubbed Junior, is Stanford’s newest competitor in a high-stakes road race sponsored by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, the Department of Defense’s research-and-development arm.

The Stanford car will compete in the agency’s third and most challenging derby — the DARPA Urban Challenge, in which robotic cars will drive in a mock city environment. Cars must merge, navigate traffic, traverse busy intersections, avoid obstacles and master the most delicate of skills — determining who has the right of way.

Posted by Frank at 07:37 AM

Possibility of GM-Chrysler Merger Sparks Debate

Debate continued Tuesday on whether General Motors Corp. and the Chrysler Group will merge. According to the Detroit Free Press, a leading Wall Street auto analyst said that GM could be eyeing a deal to buy Chrysler as a way to increase its bargaining power with the UAW and hold off competition in the US.

However, Roger Penske, CEO of United Auto Group Inc. doesn't foresee a GM-Chrysler deal. In an interview before last week's NASCAR race in Daytona Beach, Fla., Penske told Bloomberg News: "The overlap in models, I think that'd be awful tough."

Talk of a Chrysler Group sale started last week when DaimlerChrysler AG Chairman Dieter Zetsche said he would not rule out any options for the Chrysler Group's future. DaimlerChrysler and GM, the world's largest automaker, are discussing the sale of Chrysler as one potential option, said people with knowledge of the talks. Chrysler said last week it's cutting 16% of its workforce and closing a Delaware plant.

Posted by Frank at 07:18 AM

Mitsubishi Restarts U.S. Profit Engine

Helped by popular new models and aggressive efforts to win back dealers' trust, Mitsubishi Motor Corp. is on track to achieve a full-year profit in the U.S. for the first time in four years.

Mitsubishi's recovery in the U.S. is a surprise, considering it was losing more than $2 billion a year ago and some had speculated it might pull out of the North American market.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the turn-around could pose a threat to the already crowded American auto industry, which is suffering from too much production.

In 2005, Mitsubishi's U.S. operations suffered from bad consumer loans, leading many U.S. dealers to stop carrying Mitsubishi vehicles and leaving the company with an overflow of inventory.

But the Japanese carmaker vowed to remain in North America, and is planning to introduce the Lancer here next month, before other markets. In the past, Mitsubishi has launched global products in Japan first. "We want everyone to know that the U.S. is vital and we'll never give up on our operation there," says Yoshikazu Nakamura, a spokesman for Mitsubishi.

Posted by Frank at 07:08 AM

Opinion: DaimlerChrysler Divorce

Paul Ingrassia, a former Detroit correspondent for the Wall Street Journal and vice president of news strategy for Dow Jones, believes that the merger of Daimler-Benz AG and Chrysler Corp. failed because the synergies were overestimated and the clash of cultures made things much worse.

Germans, even though they proposed the merger and dominated it, always feared that Chrysler would sully one of their national icons. Amid the speculation of what lies ahead for Chrysler, this much is clear: Chrysler's woes are just the latest chapter in the implosion of Detroit's Big Three.

How did things go so wrong, so quickly? For one, Detroit's profits were far too dependent on big, gas-thirsty vehicles, which became painfully clear after Hurricane Katrina. Crisis is starting to force change, however belatedly. General Motors has gotten 35,000 UAW workers, about one-third of GM's total, to accept a buyout plan and is expected to be profitable this year, but has told investors that cash flow will remain negative.

It is unlikely that GM will buy Chrysler. Various press reports say exploratory talks have occurred, but GM, despite recent progress, has huge problems of its own, and doesn't need to boost its exposure to the UAW and the North American market. Possibly the most intriguing scenario is that a consortium of private-equity firms might buy Chrysler. Or a real long-shot buyer: a private investor like multibillionaire Kirk Kerkorian.

Posted by Frank at 06:09 AM

Sirius-XM's Merger Faces Opposition in Washington

Federal approval of the proposed $11.4 billion merger of XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. and Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. will hinge on how regulators define the companies' market. Already, consumer advocates and some lawmakers have said that the deal will stifle competition and should be stopped.

If Justice Department antitrust enforcers find a distinct market for satellite radio, the deal could be dead, because it would create a monopoly. But if the market instead includes the traditional radio industry, iPods, and Internet radio, as the companies argue, the deal could win approval. The Wall Street Journal reports that history doesn't offer much encouragement for that argument.

A similar merger between two satellite-television companies -- Hughes Electronics Corp. and EchoStar Communications Corp. -- was shot down in 2002. "Anytime you go from two competitors in a market to one, a big red flag goes up," says Gene Kimmelman, vice president for federal affairs at Consumers Union, which plans to lobby for consumer protections to be included in the deal.

Posted by Frank at 05:43 AM

US Gaining Ground on Green Europe

The general conception is that US consumers buy gas-guzzling, polluting cars and SUVs while Europeans favor smaller, more efficient cars that produce less CO2. However, Automotive News sees a shift taking place in the production of environmentally-friendly vehicles.

In Europe, many cars emit high CO2 volumes, as they are tuned for the Autobahn speeds. Biofuels and other solutions are not widely available across Europe because national governments can't agree on taxation and infrastructure costs.

Meanwhile, the US is moving forward with energy alternatives. Hybrid sales are rising in the US and both Asian and domestic carmakers offer a growing model range. Gasoline in the US contains more biofuel additives than in Europe and E85 biofuel is increasingly available. In addition, US and Japanese automakers are developing concepts for plug-in electric cars.

European automakers still have not developed a hybrid ready for the market, let alone a plug-in vehicle. Europe, and much of the rest of the world, has criticized the US on global warming. But when the EU earlier this month came up with a plan to reduce CO2 emissions, European automakers recoiled. If attitudes don't change, European automakers run the risk of being left behind by Japan and the US.

Posted by Frank at 05:43 AM

February 20, 2007

BMW increases financial reimbursement for disabled buyers

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- In an effort to make its products more accessible to buyers with disabilities, BMW Group today announced that it will lift the reimbursement ceiling for disabled buyers of BMW and MINI vehicles who wish to make one-time vehicle modifications to facilitate or ease their use of the vehicle. Previously, BMW Group limited the amount it reimbursed buyers.

“We are committed to meeting the unique needs of our customers,” said Tom Purves, chairman and CEO of BMW (US) Holding Corp.

BMW Group will reimburse buyers of new and certified pre-owned BMW and MINI vehicles for one-time driver modifications, provided that certain requirements are met.

The vehicles must be purchased or leased from an authorized BMW or MINI dealer, with a receipt subject to verification. Applicants must be able to verify ownership with a valid driver’s license and registration form. And, they must submit a service invoice outlining all modification costs. For modification facilities please contact the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (http://www.nmeda.org/) or at 800-833-0427.

Modifications that alter the original engineering and/or operating specifications impact the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Please refer to the Service and Warranty booklet provided with BMW Group vehicles for further details. The booklets are available at your dealer or through BMW’s Customer Relations staff. More information is available from BMW and MINI’s Customer Relations staff at 800- 831-1117 for BMW and 866-275-6464 for MINI.

Posted by Frank at 03:19 PM

Nissan Offers Voluntary Separation Package to Hourly Mfg . Employees in Tenn.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan North America, Inc. is offering a Voluntary Transition Program for its hourly production and maintenance technicians at manufacturing plants in Smyrna and Decherd, Tenn. The program includes a $45,000 lump sum payment and an additional $500 for each year of service. The program will not be offered to employees at other Nissan manufacturing locations in North America.

Productivity in Nissan’s Tennessee plants has always been high, and gains continue to outpace low employee attrition levels. Also, higher demand for passenger cars, such as the Altima sedan and soon-to-be-released Altima Coupe, combined with lower demand for trucks and sport utility vehicles results in a manufacturing mix that is less labor-intensive to build and that requires fewer assembly workers. Through this program, employment levels can be reduced in a way that benefits both the hourly employees and the company’s assembly requirements.

Because the program is offered on a voluntary basis, overall acceptance rates will depend on individual employee decisions. Employees will have until March 13 to decide whether they want to participate and, if they so choose, will resign or retire from the company by June 30.

“We will provide our hourly employees with as much information as they need to make an informed decision, and we expect around 300 will accept the program,” said Dan Gaudette, senior vice president of North American Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management. “If they choose to take advantage of this offer, we’ll do our best to help them make a smooth transition into the next phase of their lives.”

Nissan employs 5,200 hourly employees at its vehicle assembly plant in Smyrna, and 1,000 hourly employees at its powertrain assembly plant in Decherd.

Posted by Frank at 03:17 PM

Only 1200 Volkswagen Fahrenheit GTIs available

SPECIAL EDITION GTI HEATS UP DEALERSHIPS

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. –Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced that the exclusive Fahrenheit GTI has arrived at dealerships. This uniquely styled, high performance hatchback is available to only 1200 lucky customers.

The Fahrenheit GTI distinguishes itself from others in the lineup with its electrifying orange exterior color that is sure to turn heads. Each distinctive vehicle includes “Fahrenheit” badging and a unique vehicle number displayed on a three-spoke perforated leather steering wheel.

This special edition also boasts a European sport-tuned suspension; 18-inch alloy wheels; leather top sport heated seats; a sunroof; Fahrenheit orange interior accent trim; Fahrenheit orange stitching on the floor mats, DSG™ boot, brake handle and steering wheel; and optional Sirius Satellite Radio.

This special edition GTI is priced at an affordable $27,665 and is only available with the advanced automatic DSG transmission.

Posted by Frank at 03:12 PM

Audi R8 featured in benefit auctions for Elton John's AIDS Foundation

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The first Audi R8 sports car to be sold in the U.S. will be auctioned off at the 15th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation party to celebrate the Academy Awards.

All proceeds will be donated to EJAF to support its work in the fight against HIV/AIDS. This marks the second year in a row Audi has teamed up with the EJAF to auction off a vehicle during the party. Two Audi Q7 models sold for a combined $280,000 last year.

Bidding for the first Audi R8 will start at $100,000. Bids can be placed live by attendees at the viewing party, over the telephone, by proxy, or at anytime between now and the end of the auction at eBay Live Auctions (www.ebayliveauctions.com).

The live auction is being conducted that evening by Jamie Niven, Vice Chairman of Sotheby’s and is being hosted online by Julian’s Auctions based in West Hollywood. The winning bidder will take delivery in July and have the distinction of owning the first R8 sports car in North America, well before the planned launch in fall of this year. Final pricing for the R8 has not been set for North America, but the comprehensively equipped car being auctioned is expected to retail between $130,000-$150,000 (U.S.).

Audi recently concluded an auction on eBay for a one-day test drive of the all-new R8. The winning bid was for $12,601, all of which is donated to EJAF. On February 24th, the winner and one guest will get to experience the abilities of the R8 on the track at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, then spend the rest of the day testing the R8 on public roads in the scenic Valley of Fire. They will then have the opportunity to attend the EJAF Academy Awards Viewing Party on February 25th.

The R8 is Audi’s first mid-engine sports car. It incorporates everything Audi knows about motorsport into a production vehicle. With a 420 hp 4.2-liter V8 engine and light weight Audi Space Frame (ASF®) technology, the R8 can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.6 seconds. Power is delivered by Audi’s legendary quattro® all-wheel drive system through a six-speed manual transmission, or Audi’s new R tronic sequential gearbox. Even though the two-seat R8 is a highly capable sports car, it’s still an Audi. The passenger cabin is luxuriously appointed, spacious, quiet, and can even fit two golf bags behind the front seats. The R8 will be in dealerships starting in fall of 2007.

About the Elton John AIDS Foundation: Since its establishment in 1992 by Founder and Chairman Sir Elton John, the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) has raised over $80 million to support HIV/AIDS prevention and service programs in 55 countries around the globe. Today, EJAF is one of the world’s leading nonprofit HIV/AIDS organizations. EJAF focuses on supporting community-based prevention education programs, harm reduction programs, and direct services to persons living with HIV/AIDS, especially populations with special needs. These efforts include HIV/AIDS-related physical and mental health services, HIV testing and counseling, street outreach and education, food distribution, assisted living services, social service coordination, and community volunteer recruitment and support.

Posted by Frank at 03:09 PM

Toyota's Lean Business System is the Machine That Changed the World

CAMBRIDGE, Mass -- The key to Toyota's rise from a Japanese maker of textile looms to possibly the world's best corporation, as described in a recent cover story in The New York Times Magazine, is its ground-breaking lean business system, said James Womack, founder and chairman of the Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI).

Womack, who was featured in the Feb. 18 story "From 0 to 60 to World Domination," co-authored the book that brought Toyota's revolutionary lean business system to widespread public attention in 1990. Simon & Schuster will re-issue The Machine That Changed the World in paperback next month with a new Foreword, "Why Toyota Won: A Tale of Two Business Systems" and a new Afterword, "What We Have Learned about Lean Production Since 1990."

"The book remains relevant today because it clearly describes two fundamentally different business systems, two ways of thinking about how humans work together to create value for customers," Womack said. General Motors pioneered the mass production business system in the 1920s as it became the world's largest industrial enterprise. Toyota pioneered the lean production system after World War II and is within reach of overtaking GM as the world's largest automaker.

Machine describes how Toyota operates the five elements of its lean business system: product design, supply chain coordination, customer relations, production, and enterprise management. The "machine" that is changing the world is this complete lean business system.

After nearly two decades in the market, Machine has become a management classic, taking its place as the third book in a historical sequence beginning with Peter Drucker's Concept of the Corporation (1946), which first summarized the mass production business model, and continuing with Alfred Sloan's My Years with General Motors (1965) in which the chief architect of this system explained it in very precise detail.

Source: Lean Enterprise Institute

Posted by Frank at 03:08 PM

Japanese Giant Braces for U.S. Backlash as It Closes in on GM's Market Lead

Why Toyota Could Soon Be Nation's No. 1 'Scapegoat'

DETROIT (AdAge.com) -- Toyota has never forgotten the backlash from union workers' anti-import rallies in the early 1980s, and is worried about a rerun in light of its stunning success amid Detroit's difficulties.

The Japanese automaker, which directly employs some 40,000 people in the U.S., has seen a starker spotlight shined on its U.S. business in the past year as it edges closer to overtaking General Motors Corp. as the No. 1 automaker globally, which could happen by the end of the year.

"The danger of a backlash is just around the corner," said John Bulcroft, president of consultant Advisory Group and former auto marketing chief of Audi and Porsche. "Toyota understands the risks and is doing everything possible to manage them." Indeed, the Detroit Free Press recently obtained an internal report by Seiichi Sudo, president of North American Toyota Engineering and Manufacturing, that outlined potential societal and governmental hazards from, among other things, the carmaker's use of foreign-made parts and its relative lack of minority suppliers here. "Toyota will be a scapegoat ... and we need to position ourselves to respond to corporate image attacks," Mr. Sudo said in the report.

Posted by Frank at 03:07 PM

Kumho to Supply Tires for Mercedes Benz A-Class

RANCHO CUCAMONGA -- Kumho Tires has been selected by DaimlerChrysler AG to supply tires for the next generation of the Mercedes Benz A-Class.

Kumho will supply its SOLUS KH15 in size 185/65R15 for the new hatchback, which is manufactured at DaimlerChrysler's state-of-the-art Rastatt plant in southwest Germany.

The deal with DaimlerChrysler is seen as a major achievement for Kumho Tires and is likely to have a significant impact on the global OE business of the Seoul-based company, which becomes the first Korean tire manufacturer to supply Mercedes Benz. Kumho was awarded the contract after meeting Daimler Chrysler's technical and quality criteria.

During the development program for the new tires, led by Kumho's Birmingham, UK, based European Technical Center, the main focus was on ride refinement while maintaining optimum levels of wet and dry performance and low-rolling resistance. New tread compound and casing materials were developed specifically for the A-Class version of the KH15.

The tire will bear the MO (Mercedes Original Equipment) symbol on its sidewall to indicate that it is an approved fitment for Mercedes Benz cars.

H.S. Lee, president of Kumho Tire Europe GmbH, commented: "We are delighted that we have been awarded this contract by DaimlerChrysler and look forward to continuing to develop high quality tires for one of the world's finest car manufacturers."

"We intend to focus increasingly on the growth of our OE business in the future," he continued. "This contract is bound to make an important contribution to the strength of the Kumho brand in the global market and will boost recognition of the quality and technological capability of our products."

Source: Kumho Tire U.S.A

Posted by Frank at 03:04 PM

Toyota Announces Pricing for Camry Hybrid 50th Anniversary Edition

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2007 Camry Hybrid 50th Anniversary Edition. The limited edition Camry Hybrid celebrates Toyota's 50 years of business in the United States.

This specially badged Camry Hybrid comes with features exclusive only to the 50th Anniversary Edition. Its stunning Blizzard Pearl paint, unique 16-inch alloy wheels with a graphite finish, and exterior "50th Anniversary Edition" badging are just some of the 50th Anniversary exclusives not available on any other Camry. A power moonroof and heated power outside mirrors are also standard.

Inside, the Camry Hybrid is equipped with a voice-activated DVD navigation system with a four-disc changer, leather-trimmed bisque-colored interior, heated front seats, and a carpeted cargo mat. Unique interior features include brushed stainless dash applique, illuminated front door sills, and carpeted floor mats with the "50th Anniversary Edition" logo.

Only 3,000 units will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Kentucky. The 50th Anniversary Edition will carry a base manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $31,680 and will start arriving at Toyota dealerships in March.

Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Posted by Frank at 03:03 PM

CarMax Foundation Awards $100,000 Grant to Safe America Foundation

RICHMOND, Va. -- CarMax, Inc., the nation's largest retailer of used cars, announced today that the CarMax Foundation has awarded the Safe America Foundation a $100,000 grant to help fund a teen driver safety campaign. The campaign will include educational clinics offered during a multi-city tour across the country. The grant will also be used to help promote the Safe America website, http://www.skidzz.com/, that allows teens to learn driving safety using a hands-on approach.

"The grant from CarMax will help our organization potentially save the lives of young drivers," said Len Pagano, president of the Safe America Foundation. "Our program is designed to improve the skills and driving behavior of teenagers through clinics and interactive activities. We believe that it is critical to address such an important public safety issue with a positive and proactive approach."

In 2004, more than 5,890 young drivers aged 16 to 20 were killed in motor vehicle collisions in the U.S.; another 456,000 were injured. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, fatal motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of death for this age group, outnumbering the combined deaths resulting from drug use, guns and other violence.

"The CarMax Foundation is devoted to supporting non-profit organizations that address significant needs through positive new approaches," said Joe Kunkel, president of The CarMax Foundation and senior vice president of marketing and strategy for CarMax. "We are proud to be a part of this outstanding program that is working to make a difference in teen driving safety."

The Safe America Foundation teaches teens about a wide variety of topics including: the physical science of handling a moving car; the functions of safety devices and security features in their cars; and how to handle adverse driving conditions. The program also shows teens how to deal with aggressive drivers and other obstacles to driving safety.

About Safe America

The Safe America Foundation is a nonprofit organization that focuses on emerging safety issues at home, work, while traveling and in play. The Foundation is a national leader in innovative teen driving training, emergency preparedness, and kids' safety education. Its ongoing programs include "SafeTeenAmerica" addressing teen driving issues; "Prepared.Not Scared.," that educates individuals and businesses on how to prepare for natural and man-made disasters; and the "Safest Kid in America" contest which has reached over 10 million young Americans.

Source: CarMax, Inc.

Posted by Frank at 03:02 PM

DriveTime Celebrates Success With Opening of 100th Dealership

PHOENIX -- DriveTime, the largest used car sales and finance company in the country serving people with credit problems, announced it will open its 100th nationwide dealership on February 22 near Charlotte, North Carolina.

The dealership, located at 788 Concord Parkway North in Concord, represents a milestone for the growing company. In 2002, DriveTime embarked on a major change in its business model and re-branding strategy. DriveTime has grown from two dealerships in one state in 1992 to 100 dealerships across nine states. The company now employs nearly 3,000 people nationwide. In addition, DriveTime was recently named the #1 ranked independent dealer and 8th largest used auto dealer in the country. And company executives say they have no intention of slowing down.

"I'm excited to say that we've reached an important benchmark in the history of our company," says Jon Ehlinger, DriveTime spokesperson. "In late 2004, we initiated an aggressive plan to grow the company from 74 dealerships to the 100 we now have today, and we're not finished yet. Our goal for this year is to continue on that path and open an additional 15 dealerships before 2008."

In the coming year DriveTime has plans to hire over 400 employees nationwide and move into new markets, including Greensboro, North Carolina and Denver, Colorado. Including the Concord location, DriveTime now has four dealerships in the Charlotte market.

About DriveTime:

DriveTime and DT Acceptance Corporation, headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is the nation's largest integrated used car sales and finance company with assets totaling $1 billion. The company primarily serves customers with credit problems. DriveTime, the Go-to-Guys for Cars and Credit, sells and finances 60,000+ vehicles per year in 98 dealerships across nine states. For more information log onto www.DriveTime.com

Source: DriveTime

Posted by Frank at 03:00 PM

Hi-Tech Engines to Be Featured on Forza Motorsport TV Show and X-Box Game

SALT LAKE CITY -- Hi-Tech Engines will be featured in a four-episode TV mini-series program titled Forza Motorsport SHOWDOWN. The series will premiere at 11 PM EST Wednesday night (February 21st) on the SPEED channel. The live-action show is based in part on Microsoft's award winning video game called Forza Motorsport 2.

Each episode rigors a diverse group of competitors through a roster of competitive motorsports disciplines -- drag racing, road racing, autocross and drifting -- in a $100,000 winner-take-all format. Forza Motorsport Showdown is designed to be the ultimate test of high-performance driving and mechanical skills. Hi-Tech supplied engines for both the Chevrolet Camaro and the Dodge Challenger featured in this series.

"These are real people, real crews and real cars battling it out for a very significant cash prize," said Robert Ecker, VP of Programming for SPEED. "It's a very dynamic production encompassing an incredible amount of drama and suspense. Each team and personality has to excel in every one of these racing categories to be competitive; there's not much room for error. Viewers should really enjoy the reality twists and uninhibited drama.

Established in 1973, Hi-Tech offers complete engines, engine components, cylinder heads, crankshaft kits and engine overhaul kits for over 17,000 applications. Parts are available for import and domestic cars, trucks, marine, heavy-duty, tractor/agricultural, construction equipment, forklift, high performance and diesel engines. More information about Hi-Tech Engine Components can be found at www.hi-techengine.com.

Source: Hi-Tech Engine Components

Posted by Frank at 09:54 AM

New Mazda2 to debut in Geneva

HIROSHIMA , Japan – Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the world premiere of the all-new Mazda2 (known as the Mazda Demio in Japan) at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor Show to be held from Tuesday, March 6 through Sunday, March 18, 2007. Also on display at the Mazda stand will be the Mazda Hakaze design concept car and a Mazda3 (Mazda Axela in Japan) armed with Mazda’s high-powered diesel engine.

Officially titled the Salon International de l’Auto de Genève, the Geneva Motor show press days are March 6 and 7, and the public days are March 8-18. Mazda will hold its press conference on Tuesday, March 6, at 2:15 p.m. (local time).

The all-new Mazda2 is more than just a model freshening of the current Mazda2. In 2002, the Mazda6 heralded the arrival of Mazda’s new generation of Zoom-Zoom vehicles, and now the Mazda2 becomes the first of these to evolve to the next level. As such, the new Mazda2 represents the progression of Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom brand promise. Plans to import Mazda2 to North America continue to be considered. However, at this time, there is no current intention to do so.

Posted by Frank at 09:52 AM

Honda settles suit over defective odometers

Tentative plan includes Acura; customers will be reimbursed for repairs, warranties will be extended.

WASHINGTON -- About 6 million Honda and Acura owners will get extensions of leases or warranties, or in some cases refunds, as part of a $16 million-plus settlement stemming from faulty odometers, which chalked up miles too quickly.

Because of the defective odometers, warranties expired earlier than they should have.

In some cases, leaseholders had to pay for miles they did not drive when odometers showed they exceeded mileage limits.

As part of a tentative class-action settlement, American Honda Motor Co. will:

--Extend by 5 percent the mileage-based coverage period of its warranties.
--Extend mileage allowed in leases by 5 percent.
--Reimburse customers for repairs made just after their warranties expired.
--Refund $6.1 million in fees for exceeding mileage limits to about 25,000 former leaseholders -- who will receive $265 each.

The suit began in April 2004 when a Texas woman complained that her 2002 Odyssey was overstating her mileage by 2 percent to 4 percent. Other drivers also complained their odometers weren't accurate.

Posted by Frank at 09:49 AM

GM, Daimler CEOs have met in Chrysler talks

Report: Automakers' chiefs began discussions in December

DETROIT - The chief executives of General Motors Corp and DaimlerChrysler met in December to kick off two months of ongoing talks about a sale of Chrysler Group, the Detroit News reported Monday.

The newspaper quoted unnamed people familiar with the negotiations as saying that GM Chief Executive Rick Wagoner met DaimlerChrysler Chief Executive Dieter Zetsche in Detroit in December to discuss the prospect of GM acquiring Chrysler.

News of the talks first emerged last week. People familiar with the situation told Reuters on Friday that General Motors was in preliminary talks to buy Chrysler or to strike an alliance.

Posted by Frank at 09:47 AM

Ford is awash in buyouts

Carmaker pulls some white-collar offers, angering workers

Ford Motor Co.'s buyout plan drew an overwhelming response from white-collar employees in some parts of the company, prompting the automaker to begin saying no to some offers.

Employees who thought they had buyout deals were shocked and angry after learning that the offers were being pulled, some Ford workers told the Free Press.

Monday was the final day for workers to accept buyouts.

"They got more retirements than they bargained for," a longtime Ford engineer said. He and others asked that their names not be printed for fear of retribution.

Ford spokeswoman Marcey Evans would not confirm whether buyouts were withdrawn, but said the moves were possible if some areas of the company "received more acceptances than they were able to accommodate."

She said workers who signed up for the voluntary separation program were informed from the onset that "they were not all guaranteed to be approved."

But some workers felt stung.

Posted by Frank at 09:46 AM

Chrysler, GM deal would hit Detroit area hard

If purchase happens, thousands of white-collar jobs would be at risk.

If General Motors Corp. takes over the Chrysler Group from DaimlerChrysler AG, the result is likely to be wrenching for Michigan: Thousands more jobs could be lost as a new auto giant eliminates redundant positions.

Talks between GM and DaimlerChrysler are still in the early stages, say people familiar with the situation, but industry experts are deeply skeptical about a pairing of two companies with such similar product lines.

"If the two combine, in my mind, it's insanity," Gerald Meyers, a business professor at the University of Michigan, said Monday. "With the exception of their international operations, the companies duplicate each other."

Such a deal is likely to cause hardship in the short run, some economists said, but it could result in a strengthened U.S. auto industry if more plants are closed to eliminate excess production capacity. That has been at the root of the U.S. auto industry's troubles.

Posted by Frank at 09:44 AM

February 19, 2007

A Pinstriping Pro Reveals His Secret

For Roger Epstein, mastering the art of pinstriping cars is like playing a musical instrument, it takes "patience and perseverance -- and a long time to master the craft."

Epstein has been at the craft of pinstriping autmobiles for 18 years full-time, and counts new car dealers, bodyshops and wholesalers among his clientele.

So really the secret is the same as for getting good at anything -- having the basic skill, talent, and the discipline to keep at it for a long time.

So when we met him at Newins Bay Shore Ford while he was working on a new 2007 Edge crossover, he make it look easy. First he applied a magentic strip alongside the vehicle to provide a guide for the hand-drawn pinstripes, then he knelt to his a toolkit and worked colors into a custom tint [like "saddle or bone," he said] and then calmly, methodically, worked the first of two stripes down along side the flank of the vehicle. And did we mention it looked laser-straight to us?

After working a matching line down the opposite side of the Edge, Epstein prepared a slightly different shade of color for the second pinstripe, and executed another pair of lines flawlessly.

"It's like a muscial instrument, you're always getting better and better at your craft," Epstein said, adding that pinstriping can range from subtle lines that personalize the car to changing the look entirely -- "you can turn a basic factory car into almost a streetrod looking thing."

Epstein works under the name, Pinstriping by Roger, and his website is where you can see a gallery of some of his recent work, and also contact him for private party/custom pinstriping quotes.

Posted by Frank at 05:25 PM

SIRIUS and XM to Combine in $13 Billion Merger of Equals

Provides Consumers with Enhanced Content, Greater Choices and Accelerated Technological Innovation

Enables Satellite Radio to Better Compete in Rapidly Evolving Audio Entertainment Industry

Mel Karmazin to Serve as Chief Executive Officer and Gary Parsons to Serve as Chairman of Combined Company

WASHINGTON and NEW YORK -- XM Satellite Radio and SIRIUS Satellite Radio today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement, under which the companies will be combined in a tax-free, all-stock merger of equals with a combined enterprise value of approximately $13 billion, which includes net debt of approximately $1.6 billion.

Under the terms of the agreement, XM shareholders will receive a fixed exchange ratio of 4.6 shares of SIRIUS common stock for each share of XM they own. XM and SIRIUS shareholders will each own approximately 50 percent of the combined company.

Mel Karmazin, currently Chief Executive Officer of SIRIUS, will become Chief Executive Officer of the combined company and Gary Parsons, currently Chairman of XM, will become Chairman of the combined company. The new company's board of directors will consist of 12 directors, including Messrs. Karmazin and Parsons, four independent members designated by each company, as well as one representative from each of General Motors and American Honda. Hugh Panero, the Chief Executive Officer of XM, will continue in his current role until the anticipated close of the merger.

The combined company will benefit from a highly experienced management team from both companies with extensive industry knowledge in radio, media, consumer electronics, OEM engineering and technology. Further management appointments will be announced prior to closing. The companies will continue to operate independently until the transaction is completed and will work together to determine the combined company's corporate name and headquarters location prior to closing.

The combination creates a nationwide audio entertainment provider with combined 2006 revenues of approximately $1.5 billion based on analysts' consensus estimates. Today the companies have approximately 14 million combined subscribers. Together, SIRIUS and XM will create a stronger platform for future innovation within the audio entertainment industry and will provide significant benefits to all constituencies, including:

* Greater Programming and Content Choices -- The combined company is
committed to consumer choice, including offering consumers the ability
to pick and choose the channels and content they want on a more a la
carte basis. The combined company will also provide consumers with a
broader selection of content, including a wide range of commercial-free
music channels, exclusive and non-exclusive sports coverage, news,
talk, and entertainment programming. Together, XM and SIRIUS will be
able to improve on products such as real-time traffic and rear-seat
video and introduce new ones such as advanced data services including
enhanced traffic, weather and infotainment offerings.

* Accelerated Technological Innovation -- The merger will enable the
combined company to develop and introduce a wider range of lower cost,
easy-to-use, and multi-functional devices through efficiencies in chip
set and radio design and procurement. Such innovation is essential to
remaining competitive in the consumer electronics-driven world of audio
entertainment.

* Benefits to OEM and Retail Partners -- The combined company will offer
automakers and retailers the opportunity to provide a broader content
offering to their customers. Consumer electronics retailers, including
Best Buy, Circuit City, RadioShack, Wal-Mart and others, will benefit
from enhanced product offerings that should allow satellite radio to
compete more effectively.

* Enhanced Financial Performance -- This transaction will enhance the
long-term financial success of satellite radio by allowing the combined
company to better manage its costs through sales and marketing and
subscriber acquisition efficiencies, satellite fleet synergies, combined
R&D and other benefits from economies of scale. Wall Street equity
analysts have published estimates of the present value of cost synergies
ranging from $3 billion to $7 billion.

* More Competitive Audio Entertainment Provider -- The combination of an
enhanced programming lineup with improved technology, distribution and
financials will better position satellite radio to compete for
consumers' attention and entertainment dollars against a host of
products and services in the highly competitive and rapidly evolving
audio entertainment marketplace. In addition to existing competition
from free "over-the-air" AM and FM radio as well as iPods and mobile
phone streaming, satellite radio will face new challenges from the rapid
growth of HD Radio, Internet radio and next generation wireless
technologies.

"We are excited for the many opportunities that an XM and SIRIUS combination will provide consumers," said Gary Parsons, Chairman of XM Satellite Radio and Hugh Panero, CEO of XM Satellite Radio, in a joint statement. "The combined company will be better positioned to compete effectively with the continually expanding array of entertainment alternatives that consumers have embraced since the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) first granted our satellite radio licenses a decade ago."

"This combination is the next logical step in the evolution of audio entertainment," said Mel Karmazin, CEO of SIRIUS Satellite Radio. "Together, our best-in-class management team and programming content will create unprecedented choice for consumers, while creating long-term value for shareholders of both companies. The combined company will be positioned to capitalize on SIRIUS and XM's complementary distribution and licensing agreements to enhance availability of satellite radios, offer expanded content to subscribers, drive increased advertising revenue and reduce expenses. Each of our companies has a strong commitment to providing listeners the broadest range of music, news, sports and entertainment and the best customer service possible. We look forward to sharing the benefits of the exciting new growth opportunities this combination will provide with all of our stakeholders."

The transaction is subject to approval by both companies' shareholders, the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and regulatory review and approvals, including antitrust agencies and the FCC. Pending regulatory approval, the companies expect the transaction to be completed by the end of 2007.

SIRIUS's financial advisor on the transaction is Morgan Stanley and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP and Wiley Rein LLP are acting as legal counsel. XM's financial advisor on the transaction is J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Skadden Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP; Jones Day; and Latham & Watkins LLP are acting as legal counsel.

Source: SIRIUS Satellite Radio; XM Satellite Radio

Posted by Frank at 05:04 PM

Honda Starts Hiring for New Indiana Plant

Hiring of Most Production Associates to Begin Late This Year

GREENSBURG, Ind. -- Honda today announced that it will begin hiring for a limited number of positions for the new $550 million auto plant it is constructing near Greensburg. Honda will run a series of employment advertisements beginning this week in newspapers throughout Indiana.

Candidates for non-production positions will be sought in the fields of Automotive Engineering, Purchasing, Information Technology and Administration. The hiring process for production associates, however, will not begin until late this year. In addition to the newspaper advertising, a Web site, www.indiana.honda.com, has been established to provide detailed information on the positions.

Honda announced June 28, 2006, that it would build a new plant with an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles powered by fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines. Site preparation at the site northwest of Greensburg is well under way.

"This is a small but significant first step in hiring Honda associates for our Greensburg plant," said Shane McCoy, Honda's senior manager for the new plant. "This begins an exciting aspect of establishing a Honda manufacturing operation -- reaching into communities for future associates who want to learn our unique culture and product-quality processes."

Further, Honda is committed to diversity in all areas of employment. "We are committed to recruiting candidates from diverse backgrounds to become part of our team," added McCoy. Honda is an equal opportunity employer.

Ultimately, the company plans to hire 2,000 people for the Greensburg plant, with the vast majority to be production associates (everyone employed directly by Honda is called an "associate").

All operations of a full-fledged auto assembly plant will take place within the walls of the Greensburg facility: stamping, body welding, plastic injection molding, sub-assembly processes, painting and final assembly. The plant will sit on a 1,700-acre site in Decatur County adjacent to rail lines and Interstate 74.

Mass production of a 2009-model vehicle is scheduled to begin in fall 2008. Honda hasn't identified the vehicle to be made, except that it will feature fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines manufactured in Anna, Ohio. The vast majority of parts for the vehicles will be manufactured by Honda's base of U.S. suppliers.

Honda built more than 1.16 million Honda and Acura brand passenger cars and trucks in North America last year, or more than 77 percent of the more than 1.5 million vehicles sold by American Honda in the U.S. in 2006.

Honda began U.S. sales operations in 1959, the company's first overseas subsidiary. Honda began U.S. production operations in 1979. The new Indiana plant will become Honda's sixth auto assembly plant in North America and one of 17 major plants for Honda in North America.

The new facility will help boost Honda's total North American auto production capacity to more than 1.6 million units when it reaches full capacity, grow Honda's employment in North America to more than 37,000 associates, increase North American capital investment to more than $9 billion(1) and increase the annual purchase of more than $17.5 billion in parts and materials from suppliers in North America.

(1) Honda products are produced using domestic and globally-sourced parts

Source: American Honda Motor Co.

Posted by Frank at 05:01 PM

Check out the Cadillac Drivers' Log

By Randy Schwarz
General Motors Vehicle Line Executive

In case you haven't had a chance to check it out yet, the Cadillac Drivers’ Log is a new blog in which some of our best engineers share a bit of what they do with other auto enthusiasts. (These are the people who are developing the all-new 2008 CTS that premiered at the Detroit show.)

The Drivers' Log shows real images and stories of the incredible lengths they go to as they develop and test a car, from the Nurburgring to a quiet road down the block. If you're curious to see a bit of what real car testing consists of, you’ll want to give it a look.

Posted by Frank at 04:58 PM

Ford works to raise residual values, maintain fleet leadership

Ford Motor Company grew its fleet sales in the government and commercial sectors in 2006 while strategically reducing its presence in the daily rental market to improve the residual values of its vehicles. This year, Ford will continue to de-emphasize rental fleet sales while continuing to grow its government and commercial fleet sales.

By significantly limiting its presence in the rental market Ford is minimizing the price-cutting impact that ex-rental units have on new car sales. Rental units are more damaging to residual value than other types of fleet vehicles because they typically return to market within a year of being built, enticing buyers away from new vehicles because of an ex-rental unit’s low prices and low mileage.

“Reducing our rental volume to improve our vehicles’ residual value is part of our Way Forward strategy,” said John Felice, director of Ford’s North American Fleet, Lease and Remarketing Organization. “We anticipate and plan an overall decline in fleet volume this year, but it’s almost exclusively attributable to a decrease in rental volume.”

Ford Fleet’s market share and sales performance proved to be very good in 2006, Felice added. Its share increase of 0.4 percent led the industry, and it delivered nearly 900,000 sales, up 6 percent or 48,000 units from 2005, outpacing the industry sales increase by 5 percent. Ford Fleet’s sales increase in 2006 was fueled by the popularity of its F-Series trucks, E-Series vans and Crown Victoria taxi cab and police interceptor sedans in the commercial and government fleets despite flat sales growth in the rental market, which will decline further in 2007.

Felice explained that discontinued production of the Freestar minivan and previous-generation, Atlanta-built Taurus sedan will account for the majority of the rental decline in 2007. The 2006 Taurus, for example, was 100 percent fleet last year and represented a third of Ford’s total rental volume. In place of the Taurus, Ford is currently delivering a limited number of 2007 Five Hundred and Fusion sedans to the rental segment while maintaining its sedan volume in the commercial and government fleets.

“We’ve successfully transitioned our customers from older-generation Taurus to new Fusion and Five Hundred, which was a key objective,” said John Ruppert, general manager of Ford Commercial Fleet and Government Sales.

By shrinking its rental volume the company is seeing improved residual values in its current models. Rental vehicles hurt residual value because they reach auction after no more than a year in service to tempt buyers away from new car purchases, which ultimately hurts residual value when dealers must reduce prices on new cars. Comparatively, commercial and government fleet vehicles stay in service for three to five years and do not compete head to head with new cars, and as a result have minimal impact on residual values.

In recent years, Taurus cars held only 30 percent residual value after 36 months due to its high volume rental presence. Comparatively, the Fusion, Five Hundred and Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ hold residual value between 45 and 50 percent after 36 months, because Ford has limited their volume in the rental market.

“We’ve been much more disciplined about right-sizing the rental mix to the point that will significantly improve residual values,” said Rose Peng, manager, Ford Revenue Modeling and Global Lifecycle Analytics (GLAD). “Most of Ford’s one-year-old rental vehicles depreciate slower than most of the competitors at auction.”

Another key to increasing residual values is putting the right equipment in rental units for maximum return on the auction block. Unlike in the past, Explorers are getting third row seats and Lincoln Navigators get power lift gates and chrome wheels – attributes that are proven to command higher bids at dealer auctions.

“We’re aligning the rental unit content with retail customer demands,” Peng said. “When those vehicles come to auction their prices are higher, which dramatically improves residual value.”

Ruppert added that, in response to customer demand for crossovers, Ford Fleet is accelerating the migration of minivan fleet users to the Freestyle and Edge.

With its rental sales in a holding pattern, Ford increased its government sales by 15 percent in 2006, which led the industry. The company holds a commanding 47 percent share of the segment. Comparatively, General Motors increased its sales by 12 percent and DaimlerChrysler saw its government sales slide by 11 percent.

A key government fleet vehicle for Ford is the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, which continues to dominate the police car market with a 10 percent unit sales increase in 2006, outselling the nearest competitor (Chevrolet Impala) nearly four to one and dwarfing the sales of its newest cop car competitor, Dodge Charger.

“We worked closely with the Police Advisory Board, getting direct input about how we can better address product issues and serve their needs,” Felice said. “We’re listening to our customers.”

Among the improvements made to the Police Interceptor based on customer feedback are redesigned front seats for increased comfort during long patrols as well as bullet-proof doors.

Ford led the domestic industry with increased commercial fleet sales of 8 percent in 2006. The company holds a competitive 28 percent share of the segment. Meanwhile, GM grew its commercial fleet sales by 3 percent and DCX’s sales dropped by eight percent.

As part of its commercial fleet business, Ford continues to dominate the limousine/livery segment with a commanding 82 percent market share, which represents a two percentage point increase over 2005.

As part of its commercial fleet strategy Ford is leveraging partnerships with suppliers such as Office Depot and United Healthcare by offering them a full service, full maintenance managed fleet program. The companies benefit by replacing costly driver reimbursement programs with a risk-free, closed-end, lease program, which does not obligate the fleet customer to purchase the leased vehicles at the end of the agreement. Since the fleet customer has no obligation to purchase the leased vehicle upon lease expiration, it does not have to concern itself with asset depreciation.

“In order to get the companies interested we do a transportation cost analysis comparing their reimbursement program to our lease program,” said Don Borthwick, Ford Fleet business development and communications manager. “Ford is winning fleet business by showing its customers how they can save money.”

For example, one of Ford’s supplier customers found they could save as much as 20 percent per month per employee vehicle through a managed fleet program compared to their current reimbursement program, Borthwick explained. Ford’s managed fleet proposal could save significant annual savings for many supplier customers.

“Typically a fleet management company makes this kind of proposal,” Borthwick said. “Commercial closed-end leases are only a small part of the commercial lease business today. But it’s growing, and offering a worry-free closed-end lease like the one we can offer through Ford is a real advantage.”

As Felice sees Ford Fleet’s success so far, it’s not just about having the right mix of vehicles at the right price. It’s also about superior sales and service value and customer satisfaction.

“Having only recently stepped into this position I’ve been reaching out to some of our key customers,” Felice said. “They’re all telling me the same thing: That Ford has a great fleet team, that we have the best people and processes in the industry.”

Posted by Frank at 04:55 PM

Mazda claims top spot in reliability report

IRVINE, Calif. – Mazda vehicles have claimed the top place in one of the world’s largest- ever reports on vehicle reliability. Nearly 92 percent of the Mazda cars studied, including the MX-5 Miata, aged between three and nine years old, suffered no mechanical failure of any type – outperforming all other brands.

The report, which was issued by independent automotive extended-warranty specialists, Warranty Direct, looked at the reliability of more than 450,000 vehicles from 33 manufacturers, across the United States and United Kingdom. The resulting ‘Reliability League Table’ shows the number of failures reported for every 100 vehicles covered by Warranty Direct’s policies. Mazda was rated number one with a failure rate of just 8.04 percent of vehicles aged between three and nine years old.

“The exceptional build-quality and long-term reliability of Mazda vehicles is something we have been proud of for quite some time,” said Jim O’Sullivan, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations. “The findings of this recent report reinforce what we’ve believed all along – that Mazda reliability is not just very good, it’s the best. These results are proof that Mazda builds stylish and exciting vehicles without sacrificing quality or reliability.”

Warranty DIRECT ‘Reliability League Table’ 2007

Manufacturer, Incidence Rate %
1. Mazda 8.04
2. Honda 8.90
3. Toyota 15.78
4. Mitsubishi 17.04
5. Kia 17.39
6. Subaru 18.46
7. Nissan 18.86
8. Lexus 20.05
9. Mini 21.90
10. Citroen 25.98

Posted by Frank at 04:52 PM

Design a Hat, Win a Trip to the Kentucky Derby

Entries Sought for "Hats Off to the Derby" National Design Competition

* Finalists win trip to the 133rd Kentucky Derby to show off their designs
* Grand prize winner receives all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible
* Enter contest at www.ChryslerSebringHatsOfftotheDerby.com by March 5

Auburn Hills, Mich., Feb 19, 2007 - Established and aspiring fashion designers, do you have what it takes? “Hats Off to the Derby,” a nationwide hat design competition is underway combining the high fashion and style associated with the Kentucky Derby in a fun contest where the top three finalists win tickets to the derby to wear their winning designs. One grand prize winner will be named in Louisville, Ky., during Kentucky Derby weekend and will receive an all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible.

Fashion designers and all creative types are invited to enter the contest by going to
www.ChryslerSebringHatsOfftotheDerby.com. Entrants must submit a sketch by March 5 of an original hat design that captures the essence of the Kentucky Derby and the sophistication of the Chrysler Sebring Convertible, and be accompanied by a 100-word description on how the styling and features of the vehicle inspired the hat design. Five finalists will receive seed money and a swatch of the Sebring Convertible’s soft top material to create their hat designs and compete for the grand prize. A portion of the convertible fabric must be used somewhere in the finished hat.

Entries will also be accepted by mail at:

Chrysler Sebring Hats Off to the Derby Contest
Department 4764
P.O. Box 6650
Stacy, MN 55078-6650

Mailed entries must be postmarked no later than March 5, 2007, and received no later than March 9, 2007. Additional details are provided on the contest Web site.

Public Helps Pick Finalists
The public will vote for their favorite hat designs when the quarterfinalist entries are posted on the contest Web site, www.ChryslerSebringHatsOfftotheDerby.com, from March 20 – 26.

The top five vote getters will be provided seed money and convertible top fabric to produce their hat. After viewing the completed hats, judges will select the top three finalists, who will receive a trip for two to the Kentucky Derby and a chance to win an all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible. The grand prize winner will be decided by a panel of judges and announced in Louisville, Ky., Kentucky Derby weekend.

Posted by Frank at 03:14 PM

Rolls-Royce works hard for its elite clientele

Dinner parties, letters from the CEO and custom car features are among ways the brand pampers its customers.

Premium car companies often like to talk about making every customer count. When Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd. does so, it is difficult to doubt its sincerity.

The British super-luxury brand, owned by Germany's BMW, sells barely 800 cars a year. Retail prices for the company's Phantom cars start at $400,000, and models with many customized features can cost millions, making every sale made or forgone an event for the carmaker.

But Rolls-Royce's rarefied prices pose special marketing challenges. The company's target customers are people with liquid assets of at least $30 million, a group that automotive consultant Capgemini estimates at 85,000 worldwide.

"Conventional car companies tend to push cars down a pipeline and expect people to buy them," said Ian Robertson, Rolls-Royce's chairman and chief executive. "We are dealing in a very small niche right at the pinnacle."

Rolls-Royce, which does not report financial results independently of its German parent group, also does not disclose the size of its marketing budget, which Robertson described as "very small." However, the company recently spoke to the Financial Times about techniques for marketing to the super-rich.

If conventional marketing could be compared to a shotgun approach, one company executive said, Rolls-Royce's was more like a sniper rifle. "It's really about being intelligent about how we network," he said.

Posted by Frank at 02:46 PM

Hammer & Coop is must-see MINI-TV

I watched the first couple episodes of Hammer & Coop, a short-run web feature produced for MINI -- AND I LOVE IT! It's essentially a mocky mashup of 70s cop shows Starsky & Hutch and Knight Rider, with the MINI Cooper appearing as the talking "Coop." The shows are a couple minutes long and feature bad acting, bad fighting, bad villains, bad theme music and even bad clothes -- all dripping in layers of gooey cheese. Press release follows, but you have to watch for yourself at Hammer & Coop:

NEW YORK -- Following a number of mysterious appearances on movie screens and billboards across the country, today MINI USA finally offered an answer to the burning question: Who are "Hammer & Coop"?!

MINI USA officially unveiled the project - a highly stylized series of web- based films about a new action hero ("Hammer") and his souped-up sidekick ("Coop") - on the website www.hammerandcoop.com.

Each webisode promises action, adventure and intrigue, and is sure to keep online audiences riveted to their computer screens. All six films, which will be rolled-out over the next month, were directed by Todd Phillips (Old School, Starsky & Hutch) and starring actor Bryan Callen.

The first two "webisodes" of the viral series debuted online today to coincide with the launch of the new 2007 MINI. Over the next month, the following four will be released - in addition to a mock music video for Asia's "Heat of the Moment," a popular 80s song featured in the last webisode of the series. All of the films were approached with the same level of enthusiasm as any Hollywood endeavor - hiring a cast and crew of over 70 people, including top actors, a world-famous director, and professional stunt men. From February 22 through March 23, cinema trailers will be showing in nearly 1900 theaters nationwide.

"MINI is so much more than a brand; it is a lifestyle," said Jim McDowell, Vice President of MINI USA. "MINI enthusiasts embody the same sense of creativity, passion, fun, and lust for life that went into the making of these films. MINI owners are also a highly interactive online community, so we are looking forward to the reaction from people around the country, who will undoubtedly enjoy these films and share them with friends."

The nationwide campaign also includes an array of unique and fun creative components. In addition to the visually engaging billboards that will be unveiled in Miami, Los Angeles and New York City, the creative team of Butler, Shine, Stern and Partners (MINI USA's ad agency) has worked with MINI to create movie posters, print ads, a MySpace page, YouTube strategy, and a number of fun accessories for purchase online - including iron-on logos for tee-shirts, vintage lunchboxes, and gear inspired by the series.

"Working with MINI USA allows us to stretch creatively and expand on concepts that other, more conservative companies might shy away from," said John Butler, Executive Creative Director and Founding Partner at Butler, Shine, Stern and Partners, MINI USA's ad agency. "The result is always very fun and interactive. In a nutshell, very MINI."

The "Hammer & Coop" campaign also involves groundbreaking media partnerships, including a Rolling Stone flip-issue due to hit newsstands in early March. The magazine's first-ever flip-issue will feature "Hammer & Coop" on both the back and front cover, in addition to 10 full-color pages within the magazine. The March issues of popular men's magazines MAXIM, Stuff, and Blender will feature "Hammer & Coop" in an 8-page fashion spread, styled and shot by world-famous fashion director Stan Williams - and in addition, Premiere magazine has also created a faux cover for their March issue, including 5 pages of editorial coverage written and designed by magazine staff. And for the first time in the magazine's history, Men's Health will integrate the campaign into their highly-read monthly workout poster.

"For the next six weeks, as the webisodes launch and more of the plot is revealed, audiences will get to know the real story behind Hammer & Coop," said Trudy Hardy, Marketing Manager for MINI USA. "The goal is to effectively engage consumers in the brand by offering an ongoing, interactive dialogue that will keep them coming back for more and interested in future MINI projects."

The campaign will also have a prominent place in the viral community, leveraging unique partnerships with digital media in addition to print and broadcast. Starting this month, "Hammer & Coop" will have a solid presence on popular online sites Second Life, MySpace and YouTube. The characters will be incorporated into Second Life's "online society" on March 15, the trailer and video components will be available on YouTube after February 20, and a custom profile has been created for "Hammer & Coop" on the popular social networking site MySpace. In addition, advertising content will be available on podcasts and mobile phones (through iPod Infuse and Mobile Video on Demand).

Posted by Frank at 10:24 AM

London’s eccentric mayor opens new traffic war

$15 charge zone extended to include some of capital's favorite landmarks

LONDON - Love him or loathe him, Ken Livingstone’s stamp on London is impossible to ignore.

He’s an environmentalist, a leftist, a lover of newts, a hater of George Bush. He is also the mayor of London and author of the most controversial system yet devised for curbing the capital’s traffic nightmare.

The system — a $15 charge on cars entering central London — is being extended on Monday to take in such London landmarks as Harrods department store, the Royal Albert Hall and desirable neighborhoods as far west as Notting Hill.

Posted by Frank at 10:22 AM

2007 Cleveland Auto Show Opens Saturday, February 24

Ticket prices include free parking & souvenir program

CLEVELAND -- If you're shopping for a new-car, truck, SUV, CUV, conversion van or hybrid, the 2007 Cleveland Auto Show presented by AutoTrader.com features more than 1,000 dazzling new vehicles, concepts and classics in state-of-the-art exhibits.

The 2007 Cleveland Auto Show opens Saturday, Feb. 24 and runs through Sunday, March 4 at the I-X Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Parking is FREE throughout the nine-day show. For more information, visit clevelandautoshow.com sponsored by BP.

Visitors can catch a first-hand glimpse of the latest concept vehicles, like the Ford Interceptor, Ford Airstream, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, Pontiac G8, and Jeep Trailhawk to name just a few, including never-before-seen 2008 production vehicles before they arrive in dealer showrooms.

Experience the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge Exhibits

Keep it steady on Jeep's 40,000 sq. ft., off-road driving course built inside the show and The Cleveland Dodge Dealers' Test Track that features a Dodge Charger SRT8, Magnum SRT8 and Nitro RT. The Cleveland Chrysler Experience offers show visitors a ride on a driving course build outside the show to test drive the latest Chrysler brand vehicles.

Enter to win big prizes!

And don't forget to sign up to win a 2007 Saturn Sky roadster. The Auto Show & BP are giving away $20,000 in free gasoline over the course of the show. And enter the AutoTrader.com Match It! $25,000 Sweepstakes.

Professional Sports Celebrities & Entertainment

-- Monday, Feb. 26 is Cavs' Night: Drew Gooden, Larry Hughes, Anderson
Varejao and Shannon Brown sign "free" autographs (7-9 p.m.) in the GMC
display. Meet Cavs' Coach Mike Brown in the AutoMart display (7-8 p.m.)

-- Tuesday, Feb. 27 is NASCAR Night: Meet Elliott Sadler in the Dodge
display (2-4 p.m.); Matt Kenseth and Todd Kluever in the Ford display
(4-6 p.m.); Ron Hornaday in the Chevrolet display; and Mike Skinner in
the Toyota display (6-8 p.m.) for "free" autographs.

-- Wednesday, Feb. 28 is Family Day sponsored by Medical Mutual of Ohio.
Children 15 and under get in free. Register to win a Disney family
cruise package - a $3,500 Family Day grand prize. Special appearances
by Cleveland Indians' mascot Slider (5-8 p.m.) and Cavs' mascot Moondog
(6-8 p.m.)

-- Wednesday, Feb. 28: Celebrity chef Michael Symon visits the Cleveland
Auto Show for autographs and a cooking demonstration in the Buick
display (6-8 p.m.)

-- Thursday, March 1 is Browns' Night: Romeo Crennel, head coach, and Joe
Jurevicius sign "free" autographs in the Chevrolet display (6-8 p.m.)

-- Friday, March 2: Future NFL stars Ted Ginn, Jr., Anthony Gonzalez and
Antonio Pittman from The Ohio State football team sign "free"
autographs in the Pontiac display (6-8 p.m.)

Public Show Dates: Saturday, Feb. 24 - Sunday, March 4, 2007

Source: 2007 Cleveland Auto Show

Posted by Frank at 10:16 AM

For European consideration: Chevy presents the HHR in Geneva

Chevrolet HHR Brings Fun and Functionality to the Compact Segment

Chevrolet Europe is considering bringing the HHR to Europe and will unveil the exciting compact model at Geneva motor show on March 6. The HHR is a unique vehicle that combines styling and interior adaptability to create a vehicle suited to all lifestyles and it has a distinct design that was inspired by the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban – the original utility vehicle.

HHR is a four-door vehicle with a rear touch-pad liftgate. Its high roof evokes the look of the innovative 1949 Chevy Suburban.The HHR is easily recognizable with its large, square fender flares and a hemispherical grille. The jeweled lighting effects, as well as a flared, twin-taillamp design in the rear that create a look that is half street machine and half vintage Corvette.

Stamped door and window appearances with a one-piece wraparound molding contribute to the clean, detailed design and are uncommon in contemporary vehicles. The HHR’s rear window is flush with the body side.

The HHR has a choice of two technologically sophisticated inline four-cylinder engines, which balances usable power with fuel and emissions efficiency: the 2.2L engine with 149hp and torque of 210 Nm and the 2.4L unit with 175 hp and torque of 228 Nm.

Posted by Frank at 12:56 AM

Cadillac at the 2007 Salon International de l'Auto in Geneva

* European premiere of the all-new CTS Sedan

* New interior and powertrain options for SRX crossover

* High-performance STS-V and XLR-V available in April

GENEVA - Cadillac will open the next chapter of its 21st century product story, as the 2008 CTS sedan makes its European premiere at the 2007 Salon International de l'Auto in Geneva, Switzerland.

The new luxury sedan is scheduled to begin production in the United States, in late summer of 2007, with European sales to follow in the fall.

"The all-new CTS has a mission to bring the striking design of a concept car, the performance of a sports car and sophistication of an elegant sedan right into the heart of the luxury market," said Cadillac General Manager Jim Taylor. "Cadillac is injecting more dramatic character into the normally reserved luxury sedan category."

With a design inspired by Cadillac's landmark Sixteen concept car, the new CTS reinterprets the brand's traditional grandeur in a very contemporary design. CTS employs lessons learned from Cadillac's acclaimed V-Series of high-performance cars, combining sports car-like performance with the poise of prestigious luxury sedans.

Advanced direct-injection gasoline technology helps deliver an estimated 223 kW (300 horsepower) with good fuel efficiency and reduced emissions from its new 3.6L V-6 engine.

The all-new CTS chassis was developed with extensive testing around the globe, from famed German raceways to roads in China and the United States.

Cadillac's first-generation CTS built a strong record of success on many levels, beginning with its debut in 2002. There are about 275,000 CTS owners worldwide, and industry researchers say they are among the most satisfied in the automotive market.

SRX receives exterior, interior refinements

The SRX luxury crossover enters 2007 with exterior refinements and a completely redesigned interior. The all-new cockpit is more luxurious and spacious, featuring a new instrument panel, hand-wrapped upper trim, console, center stack, door trim, wood trim, analog clock and steering wheel.

The instrument panel and door trim use Cadillac's new cut-and-sew interior process. The vehicle's new cockpit is hand-built, in the same painstaking fashion Cadillac applies to the limited-production STS-V and XLR-V models, bringing elite craftsmanship into the heart of the luxury marketplace.

New for 2007 is the Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission, which provides increased performance and fuel efficiency. First introduced on Cadillac's acclaimed STS-V and XLR-V Series in 2006, the new transmission is now standard for the all-wheel-drive V-8 model. A new and competitively priced rear-wheel-drive V-6 model also enters the SRX lineup.

Next-generation Escalade debuts

The all-new 2007 Cadillac Escalade, the next generation of the iconic luxury SUV, establishes new levels of power, style and elegance.

Based on General Motors' all-new full-size SUV architecture, the '07 Escalade features new powertrain, chassis, safety and interior systems. These integrated systems deliver a powerful, efficient luxury SUV in the segment, led by a new 6.2L all-aluminum V8 engine with variable valve timing technology, delivering 301 kW (409 horsepower) and 565 Nm (417 lb-ft) of torque.

The Escalade has a sleek, clean and athletic form with improved aerodynamics. It is instantly identifiable and incorporates styling cues from Cadillac's landmark Sixteen concept vehicle, including a more detailed signature grille, front fender vent ports and chrome accents.

A feature-packed, spacious and all-new interior is a cornerstone of the new Escalade, and it sets a new standard for refinement. The warm and inviting interior is complemented with premium materials.

The Cadillac Escalade went on sale in Europe at the end of January.

STS adds all-wheel drive

The STS luxury performance sedan delivers sophisticated luxury in a contemporary package. For 2007, Cadillac is making available all-wheel drive - in combination with the Northstar V-8 engine - to meet the growing demand for this technology.

New for 2007 is the Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission that provides increased performance and fuel efficiency; it is standard on AWD and RWD V-8-equipped models. The new transmission features a generous 6.04:1 overall ratio that delivers strong launch acceleration yet provides "tall" overdrive ratios that decrease engine rpm to enhance fuel economy and reduce noise levels while cruising at highway speeds. Estimates by GM engineers have shown an approximately 7-percent improvement in 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) times and up to a 5-percent improvement in fuel efficiency.

BLS range expands

The 2007 Cadillac BLS range will be extended by the BLS Sport, which features 18-inch wheels and lowered sport suspension. The revised chassis tuning ensures dynamic handling performance without compromising comfort, and is designed to take full advantage of the BLS range's powerful engines.

The front-wheel-drive BLS offers expressive design combined with outstanding ride and acoustic comfort. It also marks a new era in Cadillac's history by offering an optional direct-injected, common rail turbo-diesel engine that is fitted with a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter. Like the turbocharged gasoline engines (129 kW / 175 hp; 154 kW / 210 hp; and 188 kW / 255 hp), the turbo-diesel (110 kW / 150hp) offers the dynamic performance customers have come to expect from Cadillac.

All BLS models equipped with manual transmissions have six speeds. For all gasoline and diesel models equipped with an automatic transmission, a standard Sport Mode button allows the driver to select a sportier transmission shift pattern.

The BLS Sport interior is highlighted by the use of stylish aluminum trim instead of wood and the circular instruments have white numerals and red needles on a black background. A three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and analog clock in the center stack are standard. Optional refinements include leather seating surfaces.

XLR-V and STS-V combine power, performance

The supercharged 2007 Cadillac XLR-V and STS-V are Cadillac's most intense expressions of power and performance. Both high-performance vehicles feature Cadillac's cut-and-sew approach to interiors, with extensive use of leather-wrapped interior surfaces created by craftsmen who cut, wrap and sew leather components individually. Each supercharged Northstar V-8 engine powering the XLR-V and STS-V is hand-assembled by a single expert craftsman to exacting standards at GM's Performance Build Center in Wixom, Mich., USA.

The 2007 Cadillac XLR-V is a landmark car in Cadillac's long history. XLR-V elevates the performance and luxury attributes of the brand's growing V-Series lineup to the fullest extent; it is the quickest, most agile and most exclusive Cadillac model ever offered. The supercharged Northstar V-8 engine delivers 331 kW (448 hp) and 561 Nm (414 lb.-ft.) of torque, elevating the luxury roadster into the exclusive club of vehicles that are capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) in less than five seconds.

The 2007 STS-V has the sophistication of its STS sibling, but with the uncompromising performance driving experience for which the V-Series is known. The STS-V delivers 350 kW (476 hp) and 595 Nm (439 lb.-ft.) of torque - and is the most powerful Cadillac ever. Like the XLR-V, the STS-V is capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) in less than five seconds.

Both XLR-V and STS-V will be in European Cadillac showrooms in April.

Posted by Frank at 12:53 AM

Ford must copy Toyota, which copied Ford

Today, as the once-vaunted DaimlerChrysler merger frays, as Chrysler Group casts away 13,000 workers, as Ford Motor Co. fails to meet even the modest targets of its second Way Forward revival plan, as General Motors Corp. struggles to produce a coherent 2006 financial report after weeks of delays, it seems fitting that "The Machine That Changed the World," the seminal 1990 book on lean manufacturing as practiced by Toyota Motor Corp., is now being reissued.

Posted by Frank at 12:51 AM

Yes, Virginia, GM is Serious about Chrysler BId

When news broke on Feb. 16 that General Motors Corp. (GM) could be interested in buying Chrysler from its German parent DaimlerChrysler (DCX), most industry watchers hated the idea. Longtime industry watcher John A. Casesa, who is now a partner in the consulting firm Casesa Shapiro, said he also couldn't see the logic. Former Chrysler president Thomas T. Stallkamp called it "lunacy."

Posted by Frank at 12:48 AM

Daimler moving forward on plans to sell Chrysler

DaimlerChrysler AG is moving forward with preparations to sell or spin off the Chrysler Group, raising the prospect that it could auction off the embattled U.S. unit in the coming months, two people close to the matter said. The company has already received several expressions of interest from around the world for Chrysler since saying last week that it was considering "all options" to turnaround the unprofitable operation, these people said.

Posted by Frank at 12:47 AM

February 18, 2007

Facelift for Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Latest generation of the classic cross-country vehicle now with an even classier specification

Stuttgart -- Mercedes-Benz has refined its G-Class yet again. The interior has been injected with fresh appeal courtesy of a new, high-grade instrument cluster, an attractively styled steering wheel which is also new, as well as a modified centre console with redesigned switches plus a new-look control unit for the air conditioning.

Outside, the latest generation of the G-Class can be identified by the design of its tail light units with their sophisticated LED look. These facelift measures see Mercedes-Benz hold true to its philosophy of making sure that this classic vehicle - which has been in production for over quarter of a century now - is equipped with a comfortable, up-to-date interior on a par with the best saloons, along with state-of-the-art technology. By so doing, it preserves the exclusive status of the G-Class as a full-blooded cross-country vehicle blended with the very finest lifestyle qualities.

The first Mercedes-Benz G-Class unveiled in 1979 was designed predominantly with tough off-road terrain in mind. Over the many years of its production, Mercedes engineers have adapted the G-Class to changing customer requirements.

It boasted outstanding off-road capabilities right from the outset, but its all-terrain prowess has been continuously improved on by the addition of the latest electronics. Its exceptional performance off the beaten track, excellent towing abilities and balanced handling characteristics combined with its saloon-like ambience have resulted in the G-Class enjoying an extraordinarily long production career, which now extends to 28 years.

With its most recent facelift, Mercedes-Benz has added further touches of class to its cross-country classic. This is particularly true inside the G-Class where a new instrument cluster gives the interior a sophisticated look. Four circular analogue dials with chrome-ring surrounds form the nerve centre for driver information.

Also sporting a new design is the elegant four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, whose illuminated buttons drivers can simply press with their thumbs to call up various data or control certain functions without being distracted from the road. The G 320 CDI comes with a leather-trimmed steering wheel as standard, whilst the luxurious wood/leather version awaits G 500 and G 55 AMG drivers.

Common to all three G-Class models is the modified centre console with its new controls and switches for the air conditioning and convenience functions. Not only does the new centre console give the cockpit added visual appeal, it is designed to make operating the controls more foolproof. The standard specification for the G 500 and G 55 AMG models includes the COMAND APS control and display unit featuring DVD navigation system, built-in radio, CD player and telephone keypad. A compass function has also been integrated to allow drivers to easily get their bearings even when they have left the signposted routes far behind them. The compass can be set to show the current heading in either the new instrument cluster's display or on the COMAND screen.

The COMAND APS system can also be specified as an option for the G 320 CDI. This model is fitted as standard with the Audio 20 radio featuring CD player and telephone keypad instead of the previous Audio 10 unit. The entry-level model now also comes with heated front seats at no extra cost. The new 12V power socket in the front-passenger footwell of all models in the G-Class range allows for straightforward connection of auxiliary electrical appliances.

From outside, the newest generation of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class can be recognised from its tail lights, which have been remodelled by the designers to give them a fresh, new, LED-style look.

To coincide with the facelift, Mercedes-Benz has added some new enticing items to its list of optional extras for the G-Class. These include the following highlights:

* a reversing camera which shows drivers the scene behind the vehicle on the new COMAND unit's 6.5-inch screen;
* a tyre pressure monitoring system whose information appears in the instrument cluster display;
* a sports exhaust system for the long-wheelbase G 500 Station Wagon model which is basically identical to the exhaust system fitted in the G 55 AMG;
* the "ARTICO" interior package with robust man-made leather appointments, plus
* the new "Cognac" leather upholstery which extends the previous choice of leather appointments in either black or grey by adding a third, brown tone (no-cost option for G 500 model)

In light of these facelift measures, the claim that the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is now more comfortable and innovative than ever has never rung so true. For not only does the G-Class excel by virtue of a luxurious interior ambience, its technology is absolutely state of the art too. The permanent all-wheel drive is complemented by the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS which boosts vehicle grip when pulling away and accelerating on slippery surfaces. What's more, the G Class comes equipped with three engageable differential locks as well as a low-range ratio for tackling tough terrain.

The current G-Class model line-up comprises three engines and three different body variants. The engine power spectrum ranges from the 165 kW/224 hp of the G 320 CDI to the 368 kW/500 hp developed by the G 55 AMG.

The new-look G-Class is available to order now, with deliveries starting in mid April.

Posted by Frank at 11:50 AM

Porsche names new junior driver

Martin Ragginger is the new UPS Porsche junior

Stuttgart -- Martin Ragginger (18) from Walz in Austria is the new driver in the UPS Porsche Junior team. He joins Lance David Arnold from Germany, who now enters his third season as UPS Porsche junior. At the wheel of 400 hp Porsche GT3 Cup race cars, the duo will contest all rounds of the Carrera Cup Deutschland and six events as guest drivers in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup which is run as support to Formula 1. As in 2006, the junior squad is run by the Manthey Racing team. Ragginger replaces Jan Seyffarth who left after two years.

Martin Ragginger beat five competitors in a selection trial – firstly in a sports medicine check at the Potsdam University, and later at a test on the Le Castellet circuit in France against three finalists Christian Engelhardt, Pascal Kochem and René Rast. Over two days the candidates turned several hundred laps in the Porsche GT3 Cup.

Only after analysing all data and following lengthy discussions could a decision be made. “It was the most difficult selection of a new junior driver ever,“ says Carrera Cup manager Helmut Greiner as representative of the jury which consisted of Porsche head of motorsport Hartmut Kristen, team principal Olaf Manthey as well as a UPS representative. “No other selection group has been as balanced in their performance as these youngsters,“ added Greiner.

The decisive factors in the selection process where quick and constant lap times, technical understanding and the ability to find an optimal set-up. Also part of the consideration were health, fitness, stress resistance, and how the young drivers presented themselves with a view to later representative commitments on behalf of UPS and Porsche.

Since its foundation in 1997, the UPS Porsche Junior team has earned itself a reputation as an excellent school for young touring and sports car drivers. In their apprenticeship as UPS-Porsche juniors, which runs over a maximum of three years, the young talents learn not only how to drive fast. Their curriculum also includes technology lessons, media training and thorough sports medicine care. Through the co-operation with experienced top engineers and their close connection to Porsche Motorsport the pilots are thoroughly prepared for a career as professional race drivers.

The list of successes of former Porsche juniors is long. Dirk Müller was the first junior to clinch the championship title of the Carrera Cup. Müller then went on to win many long-distance titles and was crowned runner-up in the World Touring Car Championship twice. In his first year as a junior at Porsche, Lucas Luhr claimed the Carrera Cup title in 1999, and has become one of the most successful sportscar pilots over the past years. In 2001, it was Timo Bernhard's turn to win the Carrera Cup, before going on to secure victory at the 24 hour races of Daytona, Le Mans and the Nürburgring. In 2006 Bernhard drove the Porsche RS Spyder to its first overall victory in the American Le Mans Series. Marc Lieb was the winning pilot of the 2002 Carrera Cup season and since then has celebrated one win after the other in the FIA GT Series and in the Le Mans Series. Moreover, he clinched an overall win at the 2003 Spa 24 hour race and in 2005 won the GT2 class of the Le Mans 24 Hours. Mike Rockenfeller convincingly won the 2004 Carrera Cup title and since then has collected a number of class and overall victories for Porsche in the FIA GT series, the American Le Mans series, the Grand Am series and at the 24 hour races of Spa, Le Mans and on the Nürburgring.

2007 marks the eleventh season for the UPS-Porsche Junior team. Right from the beginning, UPS has been more than a name-sake and main sponsor. “The on-going support from UPS has given us the chance to plan long term and this in turn contributes significantly to the success of our junior programme,” stresses Helmut Greiner, who alongside his duties as manager of the Carrera Cup is also responsible for the Porsche juniors.

Posted by Frank at 11:48 AM

GM Reports Good Feedback on the Certified Used Vehicle Warranty

By Brian McVeigh
General Manager, GM Fleet and Commercial Operations

Preliminary reports from our dealers indicate that customer interest has been encouraging regarding last week’s announcement that General Motors will provide a fully transferable 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty with no deductible on 2002-2006 model GM Certified Used Vehicles.

You should note that there are no exceptions to eligibility for this powertrain limited warranty, which is standard only on 2002-2006 model year GM Certified Used Vehicles purchased on or after March 5, 2007. However, you may want to consider the many GM Protection Plan offerings, as they can be tailored to include only the powertrain components or broader coverage, based on your needs.

As I noted in my post last week, the GM Certified powertrain limited warranty is a strong statement of our confidence in the quality and value of GM vehicles, both new and used.

The results of studies by leading automotive researchers tell a story of growing quality. In 2006, General Motors scored the most wins in the industry in Strategic Vision’s Total Quality Index™ for the second year in a row; with GM the leader in five of the survey’s 20 vehicle categories, beating Toyota, Honda and Nissan. GM was awarded the highest ranking in owner loyalty by R. L. Polk & Co. for the seventh straight year. And according to the 2006 Harbour Report on Productivity, GM has five of the top 10 most productive vehicle assembly plants in North America.

Building on these achievements, the GM Certified Used Vehicles powertrain limited warranty is another initiative to address the continuing perception gap about GM quality and dependability. Simply stated, there’s never been a better time in the program’s 10-year history to be a GM Certified customer.

Posted by Frank at 11:44 AM

Nissan Raises Awareness of Child Seat Safety

Nashville, TN – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) partnered with Thompson Lane Boys and Girls Club and Martha O’Bryan Center to offer free child passenger safety seat seminars to the Hispanic and African American communities, respectively. In support of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) National Child Passenger Safety Week from February 11-17, 2007, the events were held on February 12 and 13.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety administration, in the United States during 2004, 1,638 children ages 14 years and younger died as occupants in motor vehicle crashes, and approximately 214,000 were injured. Among Hispanics ages 1-18 and African Americans ages 3-13, automobile accidents are the leading cause of death.

Nissan’s Quest for Safety seminar is designed to educate parents and caregivers about child passenger safety. The seminars focused on Tennessee’s child passenger safety laws and provided caregivers with a hands-on demonstration on how to properly install child safety seats.

“There continues to be a disproportionate and alarming number of Hispanic and African American children in automobile accidents,” said Stephanie Valdez Streaty, senior manager, philanthropy and diversity communications at Nissan. “Safety is one of our highest priorities and we are happy to offer a seminar that may save a child’s life.” Nissan is an innovator and is driven by the desire to provide safer vehicles and driving experiences to its consumers and their loved ones worldwide.

About Quest for Safety

Established in 1998 by Nissan North America, Inc., the Quest for Safety program aims to help parents and caregivers provide the safest riding experience for their children. Quest for Safety is part of Nissan’s commitment to “Enriching People’s Lives” by helping to meet the needs of communities throughout the United States through philanthropic investments, corporate outreach sponsorships, in-kind donations and other charitable contributions. For more information on Nissan’s community relations efforts in the U.S., visit www.nissanusa.com.

Posted by Frank at 11:43 AM

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky Hosts African-American Heritage Art Exhibit

Georgetown, KY - To help commemorate Black History Month, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. (TMMK), will host an African-American Heritage Art Exhibit on Feb.19 through March 2, 2007. Artists Sonja Brooks, REEKO, and Barbara Tyson-Mosley will have their work displayed in TMMK?s Visitor Center.

All three artists have exhibited together on several occasions. Together, their work represents a diverse, exuberant display of artistic styles, materials and techniques including acrylic and watercolor paintings, paper and mixed media collages, art quilts and fiber wall hangings, altered books, and metal sculptures.

All three artists have works in collections around the country, but also are well known to the Kentucky region. All originally based in Washington D.C., Brooks relocated to Lexington in 1999, and Tyson-Mosley moved to Louisville two years ago. REEKO continues to travel to and exhibit regularly in Lexington and the region.

The 10-day (Feb. 19-March 2) art display viewing is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. with an extended viewing time until 6:15 p.m. on Thursday. Admission is free. The TMMK Visitor Center is located at 1001 Cherry Blossom Way in Georgetown, Ky.

Posted by Frank at 11:42 AM

Not the Ice Cream Van You Remember

Something to look forward to this summer: an ice cream van for grown-ups. Scoop, which appeared at The Old Truman Brewery as part of their 'Sunday UpMarket' sessions last autumn, will be visiting England's festivals and weddings this summer. All dolled up with somewhere to go, Scoop sells frozen delights from a glam pink and black van covered in blackboard paint (perfect for doodling).

Scoop Girls in sassy uniforms sell ice cream in flavours like Criterion Ice’s Brown Bread, Vintage Marmalade and Turkish Delight, served in small, glossy black Chinese take out boxes. The brand's fun and sexy design touches should come as no surprise, since Scoop is the brainchild of Adam Ellis, Design Director at London agency Coley Porter Bell.

Adam came up with the idea as part of the agency's internal Blue Sky competition which awards two weeks holiday and GBP 2,000 for the winner to explore a new creative endeavour. (Which is a great business idea in itself!) His idea was to rekindle the magic and excitement associated with childhood memories of ice-cream vans on a hot day. Sounds good to us. One to quickly set up in other urban areas, just in time for the northern hemisphere's summer?

Source: Springwise

Posted by Frank at 11:42 AM

Goodwrench launches "Power of 3" Web site

Fans can help continue legacy of Dale Earnhardt

DETROIT - As part of the successful premiers of the "DALE" documentary honoring racing legend Dale Earnhardt, Goodwrench has launched the "Power of 3" Web site for fans to personally pay tribute and share their enthusiasm for the No. 3 Goodwrench team.

From the home page of www.goodwrench.com, fans can click on the "Power of 3" link to share their own memories and photos of Earnhardt for other fans to view and enjoy. The site will also feature a timeline of milestones, accomplishments, TV and print ads, and photos from Earnhardt's impressive 27-year racing career. A link to a movie trailer and show times of the highly- anticipated, 100-minute documentary which is being screened in 40 markets across the Unites States mirroring the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series, are also available. In addition, fans can opt in to receive regular e-mail updates as new material is added.

"Given Dale's place in NASCAR history, we wanted to give fans the opportunity to share some of their most significant memories of the racing legend," said Jim Moloney, general director marketing, GM Service and Parts Operations. "The site will continue to grow with exclusive content throughout 2007 allowing for a truly memorable avenue to see and pay tribute to the man we all knew and admired."

Earnhardt earned more than $41 million in his career and collected seven NASCAR Cup Series championships, all behind the wheel of a Chevrolet. He tallied four of those championships in the famous black No. 3 GM Goodwrench Chevrolet while competing for team owner Richard Childress and scored all but three of his 76 career wins in a Chevy until his untimely death in 2001.

"DALE", produced by NASCAR Images and CMT Films, will air on CMT, following the 40-city tour. Participating Chevrolet GM Goodwrench dealers will make a special edition DVD set of "DALE" available to customers once it is released to the public this fall.

Posted by Frank at 11:41 AM

Your navigation system could guide you to cheaper insurance

According to independent research, personal navigation devices [PNDs] have another important benefit: a positive influence on traffic safety. Part of the research focused on data collected on 115,197 drivers of lease cars. Those without PNDs had a 12% higher rate of damage incidents, and damage costs were on average 5% higher.

Research also showed that drivers with navigation devices were less distracted, ignored fewer traffic signs, felt more in control and less stressful. All of which is being rewarded by Dutch insurance company Delta Lloyd, which co-commissioned the research with Dutch makers of PNDs TomTom. Customers who send in their TomTom product number will receive 10% discount on their Delta Lloyd auto insurance.

Source: Springwise

Posted by Frank at 11:39 AM

2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty gets top billing at NASCAR’s Daytona 500 race

* Ford revs up new 2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty at Daytona 500 as part of massive marketing launch
* Two teams near halfway point of a cross-country, round-the-clock quest to rack up 150,000 miles – documented at www.insidesuperduty.com – demonstrating how the new Super Duty became the most capable and durable truck in America.
* The new truck is off to a fast start – lower prices with more standard features helped generate better-than-expected showroom traffic, including 70,000 orders already.

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Fresh off a major Super Sunday appearance, the newly launched 2008 Ford F-Series Super Duty hits high gear with top billing at NASCAR’s Daytona 500 race, including a record road trip, massive displays and new versions of the truck’s Super Bowl ad. Ford’s boldest, most capable and toughest truck ever will be promoted heavily throughout the NASCAR season as part of a massive marketing launch that trumpets the pickup’s “Built Ford Tough” pedigree as it set new standards for Ford’s rigorous truck development testing.

“This is a super February for Super Duty as we launched the new truck on the Super Bowl and build on that at NASCAR’s biggest race,” says Cisco Codina, Ford’s group vice president of North American Marketing, Sales and Service. “Its presence at the races, on the football field and on the street is a fitting way to celebrate 30 years as America’s best-selling truck.

The new truck also is quickly racking up accolades, including the most prestigious truck award in the largest pickup market in the country. This is the fourth consecutive year that the Texas Auto Writers Association has named F-Series the “Truck of Texas” – a feat unmatched by any other manufacturer – as the new 2008 F-Series Super Duty took the award amidst one of the most intense years for new truck launches.

F-Series Powers the Daytona 500
Viewers tuning into the Daytona 500 broadcast on FOX will see a new 30-second Super Duty commercial highlighting the powerful 6.4-liter Power Stroke® diesel engine that produces 350 horsepower and 650 foot-pounds of torque. The ad shows the diesel engine with dual turbochargers and Ford Clean Diesel Technology being assembled before viewers’ eyes.

“Race fans are very loyal truck buyers – the parking lots at NASCAR events are filled with F-Series pickups,” says Todd Eckert, Ford Truck marketing manager. “Ford trucks have been a part of NASCAR for decades, and we will continue to build on that strong foundation by pushing the new F-Series Super Duty heavily at the Daytona 500 and beyond,”

Ford racing fans are invited to attend the “Super Duty Saloon” at one of Daytona’s most popular waterfront clubs, the Ocean Deck Restaurant and Beach Club, Feb. 15-17. At the event, fans can enter a live drawing for a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Ford Championship Weekend NASCAR finale in Homestead, Fla., Nov. 16-18.

Ford NASCAR drivers will make special appearances to sign autographs and participate in live question-and-answer sessions. The new Super Duty also will be featured in interactive games, offering the chance for fans to win Ford Racing prizes and giveaways. In addition, the Ford lineup of vehicles will be on display.

The Ford truck racing efforts – including a major presence in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck series – are part of Ford’s strategy to reach out to customers where they live, work and play. Ford research demonstrates tremendous loyalty among the growing NASCAR fan base of 75 million people worldwide. Two-thirds of Ford Truck owners are racing fans, and 60 percent of the owners specifically say they follow NASCAR racing. In general, 72 percent of NASCAR fans are loyal to products they see associated with the race series and their favorite drivers.

70,000-mile Road Trip

The “Bold Endures” F-Series Super Duty team will finally take a quick break and make its first big public splash at Daytona 500 after traveling more than 70,000 miles across the nation. The team’s record road trip adds to the stories behind America’s toughest road test, created to demonstrate the new 2008 F-Series Super Duty’s “Built Ford Tough” pedigree.

Two “Bold Endures” teams and traveling across the country 24 hours a day, seven days a week, stopping only f or regular maintenance and driver changes. The two 2008 Ford F-450s will travel 150,000 miles through 49 states and six Canadian provinces, towing a trailer with up to 18,000 pounds. They travel an average of 1,000 miles a day in all types of terrain, elevations and weather conditions.

“We cause a stir wherever we go,” says Al Hunt, lead driver for the “Bold Endures” team. “It is tough for us to get back on the road after our fueling stops because curious Super Duty fans want to take our picture and learn all about our cross-country adventure.”

Consumers can follow the team on www.insidesuperduty.com.

The “Bold Endures 1” team, truck and trailer will be at Ford’s truck display at Daytona’s Ruby Tuesday restaurant on Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and at the Home Depot on Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Both locations are on International Speedway Blvd. The team will be back on the road accumulating miles during its non-display time in Daytona.

“Ford engineers put the F-Series Super Duty through extraordinary amounts and types of tests,” says Ben Poore, Ford Truck group marketing manager. “The ‘Bold Endures’ tours and every part of our huge launch campaign will reinforce that the new F-Series Super Duty is ‘Built Ford Tough.’

“The Bold Endures team is testing the pickup during actual road and traffic conditions while towing a load no other competitive truck can handle, which is still 6,000 pounds less than the all-new Ford F-450’s massive towing capacity.”

Pushing the limits

The Bold Endures tours build on the 10 million miles of testing the 2008 F-Series Super Duty engineering team logged to stamp the truck with the “Built Ford Tough” promise.

“’Built Ford Tough’ is one of the most enduring brand and product philosophies of any automaker, or any company anywhere,” says Poore. “Customers believe ‘Built Ford Tough’ is synonymous with the best trucks because they know we push them to the limits before they buy one.”

The definition of "Built Ford Tough" is rooted in a series of grueling tests in the hot Arizona desert. For example, before the new F-Series Super Duty began reaching Ford dealers, the truck’s testing regiment included nearly three million miles of real-world customer durability testing in some of the most extreme conditions possible.

At Ford's Arizona Proving Ground (APG) in western Arizona, Super Duty test vehicles were driven thousands of times over 50 miles of torturous terrain specifically developed to shake, twist, rattle and batter the trucks. Furthermore, the trucks were tested during the summer when the average temperature was 103 degrees Fahrenheit with peak heat reaching 120 degrees.

“We build and test the most capable pickup trucks on the planet. We prove out our vehicles by running worst-case driving conditions that even our most extreme customers don’t experience,” says John Wagner, Ford North American Durability Manager. “We also know how we stack up against our competition. We test them and have a pile of their broken parts to prove it.”

All Super Duty durability tests at APG are done with maximum loads on the front and rear axles. For example, to allow for the customer who puts a snow plow on the front end, the front axle is loaded up. In addition, a maximum load is placed on the rear axle for the customer who loads to capacity on the rear of a truck, explained Wagner.

“A customer may not load up both axles like that, but this allows us to test for the worst-possible scenario and build a truck that will take it,” he said.

Considering more than 90 percent of Super Duty customers tow with their trucks, that capability also is pushed to the limit at APG. One of several tests for towing involves a highway road with a challenging incline. Loaded at maximum gross combined weight – the weight of the trailer and the truck – the grade of the road acts as an additional load, further taxing the truck 's powertrain and towing components.

At the other extreme, Ford engineers subjected the new F-Series Super Duty to bone-chilling cold conditions above the Arctic Circle. Ford partnered with BP Alaska in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska to test prototypes of the truck in their grueling work conditions at the most northern point of the Alaskan pipeline. This unique testing is documented on video at www.insidesuperduty.com.

“The capability of a Super Duty is defined by how much a customer can haul and tow in extreme conditions. Super Duty has no equal,” Wagner said.

The fact that Ford has more full-size pickups on the road with at least 250,000 miles than any other manufacturer would appear to suggest so.

More capability, more features … more value
The new Super Duty features an available all-new, more powerful 6.4-liter Power Stroke ® dual-turbo diesel engine; an industry first Ford F-450 pickup with unmatched capability; and numerous class-exclusive, innovative features such as the Tailgate Step and PowerScope Mirrors.

Even with so many improvements, Ford is lowering the F-Series Super Duty’s base manufacturer 's suggested retail prices (MSRPs) while adding more standard content to provide more value to truck customers. The base prices (including destination and delivery) for the 2008 F-250 Super Duty range from $23,305 for a Regular Cab XL 4x2 model to $38,425 for a top of the line F-250 Crew Cab Lariat 4x4. The same configurations for the 2007 model year were priced at $23,455 and $38,670, respectively.

Since its debut in 1948, Ford has sold more than 32 million F-Series trucks around the world. Today, there are more F-Series pickups on the road with 250,000 miles than any other brand. It has also been the best-selling truck in America for 30 consecutive years and the best-selling vehicle for 25 years in a row.

The Ford F-150 half-ton pickup, like the Super Duty, is the capability leader in its segment with best-in-class payload and towing capacities. New for the 2007 model year, Ford has added to an unmatched lineup of more than 60 unique F-Series offerings with new F-150 FX2 Sport and Harley-Davidson SuperCrew models.

Posted by Frank at 11:39 AM

GM Provides Update on Accounting Issues

DETROIT – General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM) announced today it has substantially completed its previously announced review of deferred income taxes as well as the accounting for derivatives under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. GM has determined that its previously filed financial statements and financial information for 2002 through the third quarter of 2006 should no longer be relied upon, largely due to adjustments in hedge accounting.

GM’s accounting adjustments under SFAS No. 133 are substantially complete, although some work remains. The current estimate of the cumulative impact of these SFAS No. 133 adjustments to retained earnings, including GMAC, as of September 30, 2006 is an increase of approximately $200 million.

In addition, GM previously disclosed that retained earnings as of December 31,

2001 and subsequent periods were understated by a range of $450 million to $600 million due to an overstatement of deferred tax liabilities. GM currently estimates that the deferred tax liability overstatement is approximately $1 billion. This impact is partially offset by an estimated $500 million adjustment to stockholders’ equity related to taxation of foreign currency translation, arising primarily prior to 2002, and affects all periods through the third quarter of 2006. The net impact of such tax adjustments results in an understatement of stockholders’ equity as of December 31, 2001 and subsequent periods of approximately $500 million.

GM is currently working toward filing its Form 10-K with restated financial information by the due date, March 1, 2007. If necessary, it would expect to obtain an extension from the SEC and file prior to the extended deadline, March 16, 2007.

GM does not expect these adjustments to have any material impact on cash flow for any of the restated periods.

Posted by Frank at 11:38 AM

George Washington Carver and Henry Ford -- "partners" in biofuel

Though worlds apart, George Washington Carver and Henry Ford shared a vision of a future in which agricultural products would be put to new uses to create products and industries.

One idea both men worked on more than 60 years ago -- biofuels -- is again in vogue as America seeks to reduce its dependence on foreign oil.

"Henry Ford was ahead of his time on this. He knew he needed fuel for transportation, and if he could develop something that was good for agriculture too, it would be a good match," said Dick Baker, a tech leader at Ford's powertrain, research and advanced engineering department.

"Henry also knew of Carver's work and said 'that's somebody I need to learn more about,' " said Baker.

That was because Carver, born a slave in Missouri during the Civil War, had become a world-famous botanist by the 1930s, famed for his research into the many uses of peanuts, soybeans and other plants. Over the years, Carver promoted the idea that such plants could be turned into plastics, paint, fuel and other products.

Ford was interested in the same things. Besides his legendary work creating plastic car parts derived from soybeans, Ford had long believed that ethanol (or grain alcohol) should be produced as an alternative fuel.

"All the world is waiting for a substitute for gasoline," Ford said in 1916. "The day is not far distant when, for every one of those barrels of gasoline, a barrel of alcohol must be substituted."

During the early days of Prohibition, he even suggested turning Michigan's idled breweries into distilleries to make denatured alcohol for fuel in cars and trucks, noted historian Ford Bryan. That went nowhere since Prohibition doomed the idea of any large-scale switch to alcohol production.

The automaker learned of Carver following his donations to the Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) in Alabama where the botanist was a faculty member, Bryan said.

At Tuskegee, Carver had promoted the use of crop rotation -- planting such nitrogen-rich crops as peanuts, sweet potatoes and soybeans -- to improve farmland depleted by years of raising cotton. In so doing, he also worked on hundreds of new uses for such crops.

Though he's often credited with inventing hundreds of uses for the peanut alone, Carver left few formulas or detailed records, making such claims by admirers hard to verify.

By the late 1930s, Carver and Ford were corresponding on a variety of subjects, including new industrial uses for soybeans and other plants. Ford had also met with Carver in Dearborn and at Ford's estate in Georgia and visited him at Tuskegee.

At first glance, they must have seemed like a strange mix -- the billionaire industrialist from the North and the modest scientist and naturalist from the South. But Ford regarded Carver as a contemporary. Both men had been born on farms during the Civil War and both had sought, in their own ways, to improve the lot of the common man.

After Thomas Edison died, the automaker even called Carver "the greatest of all my inspiring friends." To honor him, Ford also had a replica of Carver's log cabin birthplace built amid the other historic buildings at Greenfield Village in Dearborn. In addition, Ford helped outfit a laboratory for Carver and had an elevator installed in a Tuskegee dormitory so the botanist could get to his lab more easily in his later years.

While certainly forward-thinking, the idea that agriculture could be used to create alternative fuels wasn't totally new with Carver and Ford. The German inventor Rudolph Diesel had created an engine that ran on peanut oil in 1900. But both Carver and Ford believed that petroleum supplies would one day become limited. And both promoted the alternative uses of soybeans, which Ford used to make car parts in the 1930s.

This interest culminated in 1942, when Ford showcased a car with a plastic body made from soybeans. Attached to a tubular frame, the body weighed 30 percent less than a steel car and was much more flexible and durable. The experimental car was also equipped to run on ethanol rather than gasoline but such a novel idea failed to catch on.

By that time, huge new oil fields were being discovered and petroleum had become much more cost-effective than plant-based ethanol, said Baker.

"Agricultural fuels take a fair amount of processing to create, whereas petroleum comes out of the ground and just needs refining," Baker said. "The principles were right for what Ford and Carver were doing in the lab, but they didn't have the tools we do now to go big-time with the idea.

"Now, we're revisiting their old story with new tools, and exciting things are going on in the laboratory again," he said.

More than 60 years later, the ethanol-fueled dreams of Carver and Ford are becoming a reality.

Posted by Frank at 11:37 AM

"Hybrid" car services popping up allover

Green livery services continue to pop up everywhere, as demonstrated by three recent spottings from different corners of the world.

In London, Ecoigo is encouraging passengers to 'make the switch' by offering outstanding service at competitive prices, while being as green as a car hire company can be. Not content with being merely carbon neutral, Ecoigo aims to be carbon positive, offsetting double the emissions from every trip as well as from the energy used by its office. Ecoigo uses sleek black Toyota Priuses and extras include eco-friendly bottled Belu water in bio-degradable bottles. Offsetting is taken care of by the World Land Trust (which we featured last year: Carbon offsets by sms).

LA's Evo Limo, which has been around for a while, has a mixed fleet of hybrid vehicles and Chevy Suburbans that have been converted to run compressed natural gas (CNG), a clean-burning, abundant, domestically-produced fuel. Though it cuts back emissions, Evo doesn't skimp on luxury: its vehicles have LA-worthy high luxury, custom-built cabins.

Meanwhile, Australia's first environmentally friendly car hire service got started in Melbourne in December. Ecolimo (not related to Ecolimo in Los Angeles) uses the Lexus GS450h luxury sports sedan, an electric/petrol hybrid that produces 45% less carbon dioxide emissions than the average limousine. The service is priced the same as other limousine or car hire services.

Owner Don Pyke: "It shouldn’t cost more to choose the green alternative; people who care about the environment and are interested in reducing their impact on it, can feel confident they have made a good choice without compromising quality or comfort". We couldn't agree more. Now go out and eco-conquer all those cities still sorely lacking four-wheeled green transport!

Source: Springwise

Posted by Frank at 11:36 AM

Toyota Takes the Lead in Local B-ball Court Refurbishment

Toyota and NBA player Chris Paul Announce Basketball Court Refurbishment Program

LAS VEGAS -- Toyota has announced a new program as part of their multi-year deal with the NBA to improve communities through its new basketball court refurbishment program, Tundra Turnaround. Chris Paul, 2006 T-Mobile Rookie of the Year and point guard for the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets, made the announcement today at NBA All-Star 2007 and will lend a hand in the efforts.

The Tundra Turnaround initiative will refurbish public basketball courts in four cities -- New Orleans, Oklahoma City, Houston and Indianapolis. It also will be documented and featured on NBA TV, featuring a local NBA player in each city. Toyota partner, Chris Paul, will help complete and dedicate the New Orleans and Oklahoma City renewals. Paul will then pass the ball to Jermaine O'Neal and other NBA stars and legends, who will assist in the Houston and Indianapolis court refurbishments.

The Tundra Turnaround is an extension of the NBA global court refurbishment program that was founded in 2005 to further support efforts to grow and celebrate the game of basketball. "We know that basketball starts with the youth and also brings communities together," said a NBA representative. "We also understand that the popularity and visibility of our teams, players, and league allows us to demonstrate leadership and social responsibility to the public through this program."

Toyota has agreed to facilitate the refurbishments and provide resources, including the use of the 2007 Toyota Tundra. The Tundra will play a starring role in the construction phase by hauling construction materials and delivering workers to each of the sites. The court refurbishments are a continuation of Toyota's efforts to provide the tools to make a difference and assist youth in urban areas.

"At Toyota we believe in helping people improve the quality of life in their communities and look for partners, like the NBA, who share this outlook," said Steve Jett, Toyota National Advertising Manager Toyota. "Our goal is to create first class outdoor facilities that help kids meet their full potential and brighten a neighborhood."

The outside courts will be refurbished according to NBA standards and feature glass backboards and breakaway rims. Each city will stage a dedication ceremony to introduce the newly finished courts that will include a Jr. NBA clinic program.

Chris Paul, who embodies philanthropy and teamwork on and off the basketball court, has worked with Toyota on several initiatives including a feature in the NBA TV program "Moving Forward Moments" and as the host of the NBA Charity Stripe Party. In addition, Paul won the NBA's Community Assist Award last year and has previously helped refurbish courts in his hometown.

"I grew up playing basketball on local courts and they not only helped me improve my game, but also were a meeting place for friends," said Paul. "I am grateful to be a part of Toyota's program that helps restore something that was such a special part of my childhood."

The Tundra Turnaround program will be announced Saturday, February 17 during this year's NBA All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas in the Club Toyota area within the NBA Jam Session presented by adidas at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino (South Convention Center).

About Toyota

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion in the United States, marketing products and services through a network of 1,427 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers in 49 states. Established in 1957, TMS and its subsidiaries also are involved in distribution logistics, motorsports, and research and development.

For more info visit - http://www.toyota.com/community

Posted by Frank at 11:08 AM

Harley-Davidson and Union Reach Tentative Agreement

YORK, Pa. -- Harley-Davidson reported today that it has reached a tentative labor agreement with representatives of International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 175 in York. The agreement is subject to membership ratification and a vote is expected to occur the week of Feb. 19. If approved, the agreement would end a strike by Harley-Davidson's 2,800 unionized employees in York that began February 2.

The Company has not disclosed terms of the proposed agreement or the timing of a possible resumption of motorcycle production in York.

Harley-Davidson Motor Company (NYSE:HOG) , the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson's web site at http://www.harley-davidson.com/ .

Source: Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Posted by Frank at 11:07 AM

Hyundai revs up in race for Chrysler deal

THE Korean industrial giant Hyundai is leading a pack of international suitors for Chrysler, the troubled US arm of automotive manufacturer Daimler Chrysler.

A takeover of Chrysler by Hyundai, which makes cars under its own brand as well as controlling the Kia marque, would be a watershed for American business.

Alongside Ford and General Motors (GM), Chrysler is one of Detroit’s big-three manufacturers. Together they have fought a fierce and largely losing battle for three decades against low-cost competition from Asian rivals including, latterly, Hyundai.

GM, still the world’s biggest car company, is also interested in buying Chrysler, a move that would speed a much-needed reduction of output by North American carmakers. GM was reported last week to have held exploratory talks with Daimler Chrysler executives.

Chrysler could be worth about £7 billion, although the purchase price would have to take into account the company’s pension deficit and mounting health-care costs, as well as the expense of closing factories.

Hyundai and other foreign bidders are said to be eager to secure access to Chrysler’s valuable dealer network. A senior banking source said that while Hyundai and GM were regarded as being in the lead, there were several potential buyers, including Chinese groups and private-equity firms.

Chrysler has been put in play by Daimler Chrysler, its German parent company. Last week, Daimler Chrysler chairman Dieter Zetsche said investment bank JP Morgan had been hired to review its future, saying “all options” were being considered.

Confirmation that Chrysler was up for grabs came alongside a tough cost-cutting programme, the third turnround plan introduced since Daimler, the German automotive group that owns Mercedes-Benz, bought the American company in 1998.

Posted by Frank at 11:04 AM

February 17, 2007

Governor Rendell Announces Interstates 78, 80 and 81 to Open at 4 p.m. Today

Normal PA Turnpike Toll Collection to Resume at 8 p.m.

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced that Interstates 78, 80 and 81 will open in all directions at 4:00 p.m. today. The Interstates have been closed while PennDOT crews worked to clear layers of ice.

"PennDOT crews worked continuously to remove the accumulated ice pack," Governor Rendell said. "Those efforts have paid off and safe travel will be restored to Pennsylvania."

PennDOT redirected manpower and equipment from around the state to assist with the ice removal operation. Overall, more than 150 employees and 141 pieces of equipment were called into action to clear the three interstates.

To reopen the roadways, Pennsylvania State Police troopers will lead vehicles on all previously closed interstates. The speed limit will be reduced to a maximum speed of 45 miles per hour until State Police and PennDOT determine conditions allow a return to normal speed limits.

"Although the interstates will be open, there will still be icy patches so please use caution and obey reduced speed limits that will be enforced by State Police throughout this evening," said Governor Rendell. "Though there will be long stretches of the interstates that will be clean and dry, drivers should not have a false sense of security as these icy patches still exist."

Current forecasts indicate that snow is expected across northeast Pennsylvania overnight with the chance of reduced visibility if heavier snow squalls occur.

Normal toll collection will resume on the Pennsylvania Turnpike beginning at 8 p.m.

Posted by Frank at 11:05 AM

February 16, 2007

Porsche Races Into Los Cabos

Sheraton Hacienda del Mar is Backdrop for 2007 Cayenne Debut

SAN JOSE DEL CABO, Mexico -- More than 2,200 participants from 85 different countries have raced into Los Cabos for "Days of Momentum", a two-week celebration surrounding the launch of Porsche's new 2008 Cayenne, Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo at the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Resort & Spa.

Posed in tribute to the new vehicles, Cayennes are displayed throughout the resort with lush gardens, pristine white sand beaches and inviting pool decks serving as backdrops for what Porsche describes as models that have "grown up and developed a personality of their own."

According to an announcement from Porsche, "When you look at the new Cayenne models at a whole, you can see how they bear witness to Porsche's leadership role in the sports SUV segment." The new models have more power and a more aggressive look than previous models.

To welcome the notable group, the team at Sheraton Hacienda del Mar rolled out the red carpet.

"We selected Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Resort and Spa for our launch because the setting is one of a kind, like the new Cayenne," says Juan Manuel Sancha Garcia, Managing Director of max.sense Marketing GmbH, the company responsible for planning the event. "The spectacular setting at the resort, the creativity and attentiveness of the staff, and the meetings and resort facilities are unparalleled and have made the launch a major success."

Posted by Frank at 11:07 PM

Dodge Creates Hoopla in Atlanta this March with 'Dribble for a Dodge'

- "Dribble for a Dodge" challenge invites consumers to participate in a basketball dribbling endurance contest

- The contestant who has the best bouncing streak wins an all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab with a HEMI engine and tickets to the NCAA championship game

- Consumers ready to play ball can register online at www.DribbleforaDodge.com

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Dodge puts the ball in the consumer's court this March. If consumers want to score an all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab with the legendary HEMI(R) engine and tickets to the NCAA championship game, they are invited to bring their "A" game to Atlanta for the "Dribble for a Dodge" challenge, taking place on Tuesday, March 13.

From basketball rookies to all-stars, Dodge is looking for up to 150 consumers to be part of the starting line-up for "Dribble for a Dodge," a basketball dribbling endurance contest. After hours of continuous dribbling, the field will be narrowed to one MVD - "Most Valuable Dribbler." The last contestant dribbling at the end of the challenge will get more than a standing ovation. He or she will win a 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT Quad Cab with a HEMI engine and two tickets to the NCAA championship basketball game.

"The Dodge Ram is the longest lasting full-size pick-up truck on the market," said Michael Manley, Vice President - Sales Strategy and Dealer Operations, Chrysler Group. "Therefore, we thought it would be exciting to tip-off Dodge Truck Month and basketball madness in March by challenging consumers to prove their toughness on the basketball court and see who can outlast their competition in a basketball dribbling endurance contest."

Don't Pass - Give it a Shot

Dodge fans can register at www.DribbleforaDodge.com for a chance to be selected to participate in the "Dribble for a Dodge" challenge. Consumers can sign up online, beginning Friday, Feb. 16 until Tuesday, March 6 at 5 p.m. (ET). All participants must be 18 years or older and hold a valid driver's license at the time of entry. A random drawing will be held to select up to 150 people to participate in the challenge.

Rules of the Court

The "Dribble for a Dodge" challenge will take place on a regulation basketball court where each of the pre-selected players will be given his or her own space on the basketball court, and challenged to dribble their HEMI- branded basketball until it's the last ball bouncing. Referees will be on-hand to ensure fair play for this game of endurance, skill and determination.

Source: Chrysler Group

Posted by Frank at 11:03 PM

Tips for Car Fans as Chicago Auto Show Enters Closing Weekend

CHICAGO -- As the 99th Chicago Auto Show enters its closing weekend, organizers are offering tips for those coming to McCormick Place.

"The tough weather we experienced early in the week will cause an even higher demand than normal for those wishing to view the nation's biggest auto show," said Terry D'Arcy, 2007 Chicago Auto Show chairman. "The nice part is that with a show floor as large as ours, it will never get crowded and our patrons will still be able to get that 'up-close-and-personal' look at more than 1,000 vehicles."

At 1.3 million sq. ft., the Chicago show eclipses all others and is the most important to manufacturers wanting to connect with consumers.

"The show works on so many different levels," commented show co-chairman Bob Loquercio. "If a family is shopping for its new vehicle, they can do it in the warmth and comfort of McCormick Place, rather than having to troop from dealership to dealership to make comparisons. Likewise, for those just wishing to experience the dream concept cars to peek into the future; or just a couple looking for a fun date, the auto show fits the bill."

Show management offers the following tips for those heading to the show: